There had been confusion as to whether Spain would be able to field their 16-year-old superstar in case it would breach German labour rules. The rules state that anybody under the age of 18 cannot work later that 8pm, however athletes are permitted to work until 11pm – this would include any post-match interviews and media duties. De la Fuente has quashed any suggestions that Yamal will not play or be substituted early.
Speaking about Lamal at his press conference, De la Fuente said: “We talk to him daily.
“He shows a maturity inappropriate for his age, but he is in developing both as a footballer and as a person. We are all responsible in that process. We are going to do our job and let him play. Nothing more.
“I don’t know the German legislation on whether Lamine has to be removed at 11pm… We don’t think so.”
It had been thought that if Yamal had had to work later than 11pm then the Spanish FA would have had to pay a €30,000 fine. With the game against Georgia kicking off at 9pm local time, the full-time whistle would be cutting it fine to ensure Lamal had completed playing and all the post-game duties. De la Fuente is unfazed and will be playing his winger who has been one of the players of the tournament.
Should Yamal and Spain see off the challenge of Georgia they will face the hosts Germany, who saw off Denmark in controversial circumstances on Saturday night. Should he continue to impress, Yamal will continue to attract interest from Paris Saint-Germain who want to break the world transfer record to make him Kylian Mbappe’s heir.