Relations between Barcelona and the RFEF have been further strained following this latest dispute.

Lamine Yamal became the centre of controversy during September’s international break, when Barcelona manager Hansi Flick publicly criticised Spain for not taking care of their players.

Lamine Yamal, who joined Spain with a minor groin problem, aggravated it on international duty.

He played substantial minutes in both their international matches and subsequently missed four games for Barcelona.

De la Fuente insisted no risks were taken and that if a player is fit for his club, he may be considered.

Tensions resurfaced before the October international break when De la Fuente included Lamine Yamal in his squad.

Hours later, Barcelona released a statement clarifying that the player was injured. The RFEF said Lamine Yamal reported no complaints upon joining the national team.

This latest update for the November international break perhaps comes as no surprise.

De la Fuente told reporters that he accepted procedures take place outside the federation but had never experienced a situation like this.

Sources at Barcelona say their medical team are in constant communication with the RFEF and that the club are acting responsibly – in agreement with the player – with the sole objective of ensuring his recovery.