Spain’s Yamal says ‘very early, unnecessary’ to play in World Cup | World Cup 2026 news

“It’s not time to play every game,” said Lamine Yamal before Spain’s match against Saudi Arabia.

Spain international Lamine Yamal says he is “very close” to playing the full 90 minutes as he continues to recover from an abdominal injury, ahead of the European Championship final against Saudi Arabia.

“It’s too early, it’s unnecessary,” the 18-year-old said on Friday.

“It’s not time for me to play all the games, but I can play any minute the coach wants,” he told Spanish journalist RTVE about his readiness to play all the games.

Luis de la Fuente’s men suffered a shock defeat to Cape Verde in their Group H opener and will be hoping to get up and running on Sunday when they face the Saudis.

On Monday, Barcelona winger Yamal made his first appearance since being injured in mid-April, coming on as a substitute in the 71st minute against Cape Verde.

Coach De la Fuente told Radio Cope on Thursday that Yamal could play “about an hour” this week in Atlanta.

Yamal was unable to inspire his teammates in the final against Cape Verde, but his Barcelona team-mate Pau Cabarsi helped him in the tournament.

“We already know the conditions of Lamine,” Cabarsi said on Friday.

“Whether he comes or not, he will help us as much as he can – but I think whoever plays in his place will do the same.”

Spain were the favorites for the tournament, but have not gone past the last 16 at the World Cup since they first lifted the trophy in 2010.