Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has refused to confirm whether Lamine Yamal will start against Czechia on Saturday, as he considers rotating his squad during a demanding Nations League schedule.
De la Fuente said Spain would select the players considered best prepared for the match, leaving open the possibility that Yamal could begin the game on the bench. The Barcelona winger has started Spain’s previous two matches during the current international window.
Yamal has made a major impact in those games. He scored in Spain’s 3-2 comeback victory over England at Wembley before producing two goals and an assist in the 4-1 win over Croatia.
However, De la Fuente said the tight schedule means player welfare must be considered when selecting his team. Spain have several matches in a short period, leaving limited time for recovery and training.
“Lamine is important at any point in the match,” De la Fuente said, explaining that the teenager could make an impact whether he starts or enters later in the game.
The Spain manager also praised Yamal’s development, saying the winger has appeared increasingly mature. De la Fuente described that progress as a positive development for the national team.
Rotation is not expected to be limited to one position. De la Fuente said changes could be made across the team, including in goal, as Spain manage the demands of the Nations League schedule.
Spain currently have six points from their opening two matches after victories over England and Croatia, while Czechia are still searching for their first point in the group.
De la Fuente warned that Spain cannot afford to underestimate their opponents, despite their strong start. He said every match at this level presents a different challenge and that his players must maintain their standards.
Whether Yamal starts or comes on later will therefore be decided shortly before kick-off, with De la Fuente prioritising both the player's condition and what he believes is the most suitable team for the match.