Spain coach gives little away over Yamal’s role

Luis de la Fuente has refused to confirm whether Lamine Yamal will start Spain’s Nations League match against Czechia on Saturday, saying the final decision would follow the team’s last preparations.

Yamal has started both of Spain’s matches during the international break, scoring three goals and providing an assist. Asked whether the Barcelona forward would again be in the starting XI, De la Fuente said: “We’ll field the most suitable team for tomorrow’s match. We have it in mind, but we’ll make the final adjustments tonight.”

Coach praises teenager’s development

De la Fuente stressed that Yamal can be effective whether he starts or enters later in the game. “He’s important at any point in the game. From the start, or from the 60th or 45th minute,” he said. “When we play him, it’s because he’s effective for the team.”

The Spain coach also praised the teenager’s progress, saying: “It’s a pleasure to watch him; he’s more mature every day. He understands all situations, even those outside of the game. That’s fantastic news.”

The Czechia fixture is the third of four matches for Spain before La Liga resumes the following weekend. Spain’s final game of the run is scheduled for Tuesday night in Croatia.