Why Lamine Yamal Chose Spain Over Morocco: De la Fuente Settles the Debate

Spain Coach Closes the Door on Yamal’s Moroccan Dream

Spain's head coach, Luis de la Fuente, revisits the Lamine Yamal matter amid tensions with Barcelona, stressing a simple principle: the best interests of La Roja and the players' health come first.

In an interview with AS, he acknowledged both sides' positions, noting that everyone defends what they believe is best, and that he understands Barcelona's concerns since his career once included Germany's national team.

De la Fuente defended his authority to select the squad by prioritizing welfare and representing the country with the strongest team possible. He cites Yamal as a prime example: when in doubt, a player sits out and returns to his club with a clear conscience.

World Cup Ambitions and Morocco’s Rise

Asked about Spain's World Cup hopes, he answered unequivocally: yes, we can be world champions, and we will fight for it, while acknowledging that big teams like Brazil, Argentina, Germany, France, Portugal, and Morocco will contest the title.

He praised Morocco's progress and the talent of their players in top leagues, noting that their development has elevated the competition to unprecedented levels.

Regarding Lamine's decision, de la Fuente reiterated: Lamine chose Spain, and that was a tremendous boon for us.

On nationality and identity, he added: we must respect everyone’s choices. Lamine feels Spanish, and that is the best news we could ask for.

Punchline: If football were a cafe, Spain just ordered a double espresso with Yamal—strong, stylish, and guaranteed to wake up the defense.

Punchline 2: And if anyone asks for the receipts, the invoice reads: "Lamine Yamal – Spain, 1; Morocco – 0; happiness – infinite."