Spain's Yamal says 'very early, unnecessary' to play full World Cup match

Spain's young football sensation Lamine Yamal believes it is "too soon" and "unnecessary" for him to play an entire 90-minute match as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury. The 18-year-old winger is preparing for Spain's upcoming World Cup game against Saudi Arabia. Yamal made his first appearance since the injury on Monday, coming on as a 71st-minute substitute in Spain's surprise goalless draw against debutants Cape Verde. "It's not the time to play a whole match, but I can play whatever minutes the coach wants," Yamal told Spanish public broadcaster RTVE. Coach Luis de la Fuente indicated on Thursday that Yamal could potentially play "an hour" in the upcoming match. Despite not being able to change the result against Cape Verde, Yamal's Barcelona teammate Pau Cabarsi expressed confidence in his abilities. "We already know Lamine’s qualities," Cabarsi said Friday. "Whether he comes on or not, he’ll help us as much as possible – but I think whoever plays in his place will do just as well." Spain, considered pre-tournament favorites, have not advanced past the last 16 in a World Cup since winning the title in 2010.

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It’s very early, it’s unnecessary. It’s not the time to play a whole match, but I can play whatever minutes the coach wants.