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Spain Says Lamine Yamal Likely Fit for World Cup Opener

A cautious non‑surgical rehab and strict minute limits are being used to lower the chance of a hamstring relapse before Spain’s June 15 match.

Overview

  • Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said Yamal could be ready to feature in the opening match on June 15 but stopped short of guaranteeing any playing time.
  • Yamal will not play the warm‑up against Iraq and is being rested for other friendlies as part of a wider decision that also leaves out players who played in the recent Champions League final.
  • Barcelona and Spain medical staff are following a conservative, non‑surgical recovery plan that emphasises staged on‑field work and controlled minutes rather than an immediate return.
  • Any involvement in the opener would be conditional and limited, with de la Fuente saying the options range from a short substitute appearance to using the match for practice to build fitness for later games.
  • The decisions reflect the high risk of hamstring re‑injury and carry both personal stakes for the 18‑year‑old and tactical consequences for Spain’s attack and minute allocation among forwards.