Before the national team meeting, Lamine Yamal was treated for his groin problems – without the national team doctors being told anything.
They only learned about the treatment late on Monday night. Information that resulted in criticism of the 18-year-old's La Liga club, Barcelona.
"The treatment has taken place without prior information to the national team's medical staff, who first received notification of it at 10:40 p.m. yesterday (Monday) in a report showing that seven to ten days of rest are recommended," the association writes in a statement.
According to the association, the announcement from Barcelona left no other option than to remove Yamal from the squad.
The groin has been a concern for Yamal this season, and he has missed five of Barcelona's matches.
Spain, who next face Georgia and Turkey, top the qualifying group on maximum points after four matches.
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