Spain could face punishment for violating German law if Lamine Yamal plays in Euro 2024 Group stage clash against Albania - Reports
Spain could face legal consequences over the playing status of Lamine Yamal in the side's final Group B clash against Albania on Monday, June 24. The rules in host nation Germany regarding work timings for under-18s could spell trouble for La Roja.
According to Spanish outlet COPE (via German outlet Bild), the rules in the country prevent people under the age of 18 from working past 20:00. An extension until 23:00 is allowed for athletes, allowing time for media duties and personal time after the match. However, the game is set to kick off at 21:00 local time, meaning Spain could find it difficult to comply with the rules.
Yamal, 16, has played a key role in the side's strong start to their Euros 2024 campaign, picking up wins over Croatia and Italy. He has been a creative force from the right wing in Spain's two fixtures, bagging one assist. The prodigy shot to fame with his performances for Barcelona last season, registering seven goals and 10 assists in 50 games across competitions.
La Roja manager Luis de la Fuente can afford to rest the teenager with qualification to the Round of 16 secured ahead of the clash against Albania. However, he could've concerns over Yamal's availability for the rest of the campaign with some of the knockouts also scheduled to kick off at 21:00 local time.
Spain star's impressive performances garnering interest of Premier League clubs: Reports
Spain attacker Nico Williams has caught the eye of multiple top clubs across Europe. According to The Athletic (via Metro UK), the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona have all identified him as a target.
The 21-year-old has been a key player for Luis de la Fuente's side who have started their campaign strongly with wins over Croatia and Italy. He was notably impressive against the Azzurri, causing problems regularly down the left in an outing that won him the Player of the Match award. He shone for Athletic Club last season as well, bagging five goals and 14 assists in 31 La Liga games for the side who finished fifth.
The report claims that the winger has a €55 million release clause in his contract, making him an attractive option. While Barcelona may struggle to make that offer over their financial difficulties, Arsenal and Chelsea could be in the running for the player.
Gunners manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly identified him as a key target. The Spaniard could slot into the left side of the front three as an option over Gabriel Martinelli. The Brazilian had an unremarkable campaign with just eight goals and five assists in 44 games across competitions. The Blues, meanwhile, could use him over the likes of Raheem Sterling and Mykhaylo Mudryk, who have struggled to impress as well.