‘Raphinha’s injury is a shame’ – Spain boss Luis de la Fuente talks Lamine Yamal’s game time amid Barcelona concerns

VILLARREAL, SPAIN - MARCH 27: Lamine Yamal of Spain looks on during the International Friendly match between Spain and Serbia at Estadio de la Ceramica on March 27, 2026 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has been asked about Lamine Yamal’s game time with the national team in the wake of Raphinha’s injury. Barcelona have reportedly asked Spain to take care of the teenager and are believed to have received reassurances from the RFEF.

Spain play Egypt in a friendly on Tuesday night and De la Fuente spoke about his team selection, insisting he could freshen up his team but still wants to play a strong side to get the win. “He might be in contention to start because we want to win. We need to freshen up the team, but obviously to avoid tiring out the players, all of them,” he told reporters at a press conference.

“I understand that the Barça manager is interested, I understand that everyone has their own preferences, but I have to consider everyone’s feelings. I have to field a team that can win. “I don’t know what I have to consider, just fielding the best team to win.

I understand that everyone has their own preferences, but I’m inclusive of everyone. I’m empathetic towards others, and now I demand the same of myself. “Raphinha’s situation is a shame, but there are players from Barça, Madrid, Athletic… There are seven from Barça, and that’s great news for them.