Those tensions first surfaced back in September, when Barca manager Hansi Flick accused Spain of “not protecting” the 18-year-old forward, who played through two World Cup qualifiers that month despite discomfort from a groin problem, taking painkillers to do so.

When de la Fuente called him again for the upcoming matches against Georgia and Turkiye, he said the "risk was zero," but then Yamal provided the Spanish FA a medical report saying he has to rest 7-10 days during the International break. The Spanish FA issued the following statement.

Former Netherlands and Real Madrid star Wesley Sneijder has claimed it's "possible" that Lamine Yamal will surpass Lionel Messi, while predicting that the Barcelona wonderkid will stay at the club until at least 2035.

The RFEF claimed Spain's medical team had not been given prior notice that the Barcelona forward would be undergoing the procedure.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente revealed that Lamine Yamal was "very sad" to withdraw from the Spanish national team after an invasive radiofrequency therapy this week ruled him out for over a week.

Luis de la Fuente played down any disagreement with Barcelona over the handling of Lamine Yamal but admitted communication between the two could be better.

Despite remaining as unbeaten in the UEFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Spain have yet to secure their spot in the anticipated tournament. Nonetheless, they face Türkiye with the urge to get a victory to avoid the playoffs.