Young Spanish star Lamine Yamal has said playing a full 90 minutes at the World Cup at this stage is 'too soon' and 'unnecessary', as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury.
Speaking ahead of Spain's group-stage match against Saudi Arabia, Yamal told Spanish public broadcaster RTVE: 'This is not the time to play a full match, but I can play whatever minutes the coach wants.'
The Barcelona winger made his first appearance since suffering the injury in mid-April, coming on in the 71st minute of a goalless draw with Cape Verde. Coach Luis de la Fuente had earlier told Radio Cope that Yamal could play 'an hour' this weekend in Atlanta.
Yamal was unable to make a difference in the closing minutes against Cape Verde, but teammate Pau Cubarsí expressed confidence: 'We know Lamine's qualities well. Whether he plays or not, he will help the team as much as he can – but I think whoever replaces him will also do a good job.'
Spain are considered among the top title contenders, but since winning the trophy in 2010, they have not advanced past the round of 16 at any World Cup. In their Group H opener, the reigning European champions were held to a 0-0 draw by tournament debutants Cape Verde and will face Saudi Arabia on Sunday.
