There’s no doubt, Spain’s performance in Euro 2024 has reasserted their status as a football powerhouse. As they vie for their fourth European title. the tournament’s most enjoyable team, beats England to lift trophy. La Roja won the final (2-1) on Sunday, showcasing the most polished gameplay seen this summer.

Although FC Barcelona received a rather harsh message from Spain’s manager, Luis de la Fuente, regarding Lamine Yamal’s playing time during the international break, the teenager faced Serbia and played the full ninety minutes and could well do the same again on Sunday when Spain face Switzerland.

“If you can’t play 180 minutes in September, we stop everything,” he told reporters.

“We are doing what we have to do, representing our country, my duty is to protect all the players, and that’s what I do.”

There are many players who have faced problems due to playing for overtime like Pedri, Playing overtime in high-stakes matches significantly affected him. The extended play increased his physical fatigue and raised the risk of injuries, impacting his performance. Mental strain also grew, impairing his concentration and decision-making. The player missed many club matches due to this.

De la Fuente’s comments won’t go down well with Barca fans who have already seen Gavi ruled out for almost a year after being injured on international duty. Also recently Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo have picked injuries during the latest call-up.

Noticing all these the club and fans are concerned about Yamal’s workload at such a young age since he did not have a proper summer break., the balon’Dor nominee, the young Spanish talent, made waves at FC Barcelona with his exceptional performances. Emerging from La Masia, Barcelona’s youth academy ,but De la Fuente remained defiant when asked about him.

WHAT NEXT FOR YAMAL?

It appears Yamal can expect to be included in the starting XI when Spain take on Switzerland in their second Nations League game on Sunday