The Spain national team coach has ignited a fierce row with FC Barcelona, firing back at the club’s outrage over the handling of its players.
The international break, meant to showcase Spain’s stars, has instead deepened tensions between club and country.
The Blaugrana, already without Gavi and Joan Garcia, are frustrated by the Spanish national team’s handling of their players, accusing them of risking key talents’ fitness.
This clash, set against Barcelona’s 25-point lead, threatens to disrupt their title charge and Champions League hopes.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente sharply rebuffed Barcelona’s criticism, snapping, “Why make a big deal about it?” in defense of his management of Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Ferran Torres, as reported by Goal.
Olmo’s soleus tear, sustained after training despite fatigue concerns, rules him out for three weeks, potentially missing El Clasico.
Torres, released early for muscle overload, should face Girona, while Yamal, withdrawn due to pubic discomfort, has resumed training.
De la Fuente insisted Spain’s medical protocols were thorough, contrasting Barcelona’s choice to keep Olmo, unlike Real Madrid’s release of Dean Huijsen.
The club sees a pattern, recalling Yamal’s earlier scare, and fears further setbacks could derail their campaign.
De la Fuente countered that clubs must prepare players better, stressing shared responsibility. “We treat them like family,” he said, defending collaborative assessments.
The row highlights a broader rift in Spanish football, where Barcelona’s reliance on La Masia stars amplifies scrutiny on La Roja.
Hansi Flick must now navigate Girona without Olmo, leaning on Yamal and Torres.
Joan Laporta may push for RFEF talks to address player welfare, especially with the 2026 World Cup looming.
For now, de la Fuente’s defiance holds, but Barcelona’s concerns signal a need for better club-country coordination to protect their stars and sustain their title push.
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