FC Barcelona has reportedly sealed a crucial deal with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) concerning the La Masia talents Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, as per SPORT’s anonymous sources.
Despite their young age of 16 and 17 respectively, Lamine and Cubarsi have already made significant strides, cementing their spots as regular starters under the helm of coach Xavi Hernandez. With the Euros and Olympics on the horizon, both players are potential candidates for Spain’s national teams this summer.
Deco, the Catalans’ Sporting Director, openly discussed this possibility during an appearance on the Que T’hi Juegues program.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Lamine expressed reservations about the idea of participating in both tournaments, citing the cautionary tale of Pedri’s experience. The midfielder’s career saw setbacks following his participation in the Euros and Olympics, with injuries, particularly thigh issues, plaguing his performances.
With Pedri’s ordeal in mind, FC Barcelona is keen to prevent a similar fate for Lamine and Cubarsi. Consequently, they’ve brokered an agreement with the RFEF to address this concern.
Under the terms of the agreement, the youngsters would only join the Euros and the Paris 2024 Olympics if their involvement in the former tournament is limited. Should they play prominent roles in the Euros, their participation in the Olympics will be ruled out entirely, as reported by SPORT.
This development aims to ensure the teenagers return to Xavi Hernandez’s squad in optimal condition, potentially even embarking on a preseason tour of the United States.
