Luis de la Fuente has played down talks of tension in the Spanish national team following the drama that ensued in Last month’s El Clasico clash between Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Last month’s El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu produced a tense post-match moment that quickly grabbed headlines across Spain.
After the final whistle, Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal was caught in an altercation with Lamine Yamal in the middle of the pitch, an incident that reignited the fierce rivalry between the clubs.
Carvajal confronted the 18-year-old after comments Yamal had made during an appearance in the Kings League before the match.
Not pleased with the comment, Carvajal made a clear gesture towards the teenager, seemingly implying that he “talks too much,” as the Bernabeu crowd watched on.
Things got heated among the players as Yamal was walked down to the tunnel.
While both players have moved on with their respective club, there are claims the rivalry could be extended to the Spanish national team.
Daniel Carvajal celebrates scoring his team’s third goal with teammate Lamine Yamal during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Spain and Croatia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Carvajal is the captain of the Spanish national team, a side where Yamal is expected to play a starring role ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
However, Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, was asked to comment on the situation.
In a preview of Jose Ramon de la Morena’s podcast Resonancia de Corazon, the national team manager offered a calm and reassuring perspective on the matter.
“There was no incident, no schoolyard fight, really, the feeling in the national team is one of unity, of family,” he said.
When pressed further about whether he had personally reached out to the players involved, De la Fuente admitted to having spoken with both of them.
“Now it’s up to their club managers to talk to them. I’ve spoken a lot with Lamine, as I have with Dani Carvajal.”
“Have you spoken to Carvajal?” asked De la Morena. “Yes, I spoke to Dani,” replied the coach.
The Spain boss was quick to underline the harmony and maturity he has witnessed among his players when they come together for international duty.
“There has been no strange behaviour from anyone,” he said. “Prioritising the common good says a lot about this group, about the players,” he added.
