Barcelona Disputes RFEF Claims Over Lamine Yamal Medical Treatment Notification
Barcelona has rejected claims by Spain’s football federation (RFEF) that it failed to inform authorities before subjecting teenage star Lamine Yamal to medical treatment, insisting the federation was notified “immediately” about the procedure.
The dispute centers on radiofrequency treatment administered to the 18-year-old forward for pubalgia, a groin injury that has sidelined him from Spain’s final two qualifying matches.
Barcelona Defends Medical Protocol
Club sources told Spanish news agency EFE that Barcelona’s medical department acted “responsibly and in full coordination” with both the player and the RFEF throughout the process.
The club maintains it communicated Yamal’s condition to the federation without delay, with the sole objective of ensuring optimal recovery for the forward, who has been one of Spain’s breakout stars this season.
Barcelona sources added that Yamal remained under constant supervision by club medical staff, who maintained regular contact with federation officials.
RFEF Expresses “Surprise and Discontent”
The RFEF issued a statement earlier this week expressing “surprise” and “discontent” after learning, according to its account, that Yamal had undergone an “invasive radiofrequency procedure” without prior notification.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente subsequently withdrew Yamal from the squad for qualifiers against Georgia on Saturday in Tbilisi and Turkey on Nov. 18 in Seville.
Barcelona disputes the federation’s characterization of events, reiterating that proper protocols were followed.
Specialist Consultation Preceded Treatment
Barcelona consulted Belgian specialist Ernest Schilders, considered a leading authority on pubalgia injuries, as part of its treatment plan.
Schilders examined Yamal on Monday at Barcelona’s training complex, one day after the forward was substituted in stoppage time during the club’s match against Celta Vigo.
The assessment found positive evolution of the injury, which Barcelona considers under control. Both the club and the specialist agreed radiofrequency treatment would accelerate complete recovery.
The procedure requires a period of rest and targeted follow-up, details Barcelona says were immediately communicated to the RFEF.
Injury Timeline and Impact
Yamal has been managing the pubalgia injury for several weeks while continuing to feature for Barcelona. The condition has not prevented him from playing but required careful management.
The radiofrequency treatment represents a minimally invasive option designed to expedite healing and allow Yamal to return to full fitness more quickly than rest alone would permit.
His absence from Spain’s upcoming fixtures marks a precautionary measure as the teenager recovers from the procedure.
Player Welfare at Center of Dispute
The disagreement highlights ongoing tensions between clubs and national federations over player welfare and communication protocols.
Barcelona maintains it prioritized transparent communication with the RFEF while making medical decisions in the player’s best interests. The club insists federation officials were kept informed at every stage.
The RFEF’s statement suggests it believes notification came too late or was insufficient, though specific timeline details remain unclear.
Yamal’s Rising Profile
The 18-year-old has emerged as one of European football’s most exciting young talents since breaking into Barcelona’s first team.
His performances for both club and country have made him a key figure in Spain’s plans, making his injury management a matter of significant interest to both Barcelona and the national team.
Spain remains in strong position in qualifying despite Yamal’s absence, though his creativity and goal threat will be missed in the upcoming fixtures.
What Happens Next
Yamal will undergo a recovery period following the radiofrequency treatment, with Barcelona’s medical staff overseeing his rehabilitation.
No specific return date has been announced, though the club has characterized the injury as “under control” and expects the procedure to accelerate his return to full fitness.
The disagreement between Barcelona and the RFEF over communication protocols is unlikely to escalate further, with both parties focused on the player’s recovery.