Clash of Interests: Javier Clemente on Lamine Yamals Omission from National Team

Former coach of the Spanish national team, **Javier Clemente**, shared his thoughts on the exclusion of Barcelona forward **Lamine Yamal** from the national squad for the November World Cup 2026 qualifying matches against Georgia and Turkey.

“It’s like cockfighting. I have never encountered this and never will, as I have a different perspective on how things should be. It’s clear that a different approach is necessary. Barcelona should not be in opposition to the Federation, nor should the Federation oppose Barcelona,” Clemente stated, according to Footmercato.

Yamal was removed from the Spain squad for medical reasons. However, this decision was made without coordination with the national team’s medical staff, leading to surprise and dissatisfaction among the coaching team.