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Lamine Yamal will sit out Spain’s Nations League clash with Serbia after picking up a muscle injury.
The Barcelona youngster limped off in injury time during Spain’s 1-0 win over Denmark on Saturday. An MRI on Sunday confirmed the injury, and Yamal has now returned to his club to recover.
“The tests did not reveal any structural injury, and the medical staff of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) confirmed it is a case of muscle strain,” Spain’s statement read.
“Prioritising the player’s health and to avoid any risk of injury ahead of the upcoming match against Serbia, it has been decided to withdraw him from the squad.”
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The 17-year-old endured several heavy challenges against Denmark, and coach Luis de la Fuente wasn’t surprised by the rough treatment.
After the game, De la Fuente reminded that playing at the top level won’t be a “bed of roses” for Yamal.
“The referee has to protect these talented players, but Lamine has to get used to it,” said De la Fuente.
“Lamine displayed an exceptional attitude and generated a lot for us from the right flank. He has a special talent. I had a teammate who used to say: ‘What do you want, kisses [from the opponents]?’
Riquelme replaces Yamal
Following the injury scare, Yamal has been replaced in La Roja squad by Atlético Madrid’s 24-year-old versatile player Rodrigo Riquelme.
Tags: Lamine Yamal, Spain, Serbia, Denmark, Luis de la Fuente, Barcelona, Yamal injury scare, Rodrigo Riquelme, Atlético Madrid, Nations League, #UNL, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnigeria, #nrtcsports.
