The Barca starlet featured in wins over Bulgaria and Turkey last month – assisting twice against the latter – before aggravating a groin problem which left him out of action for three weeks.
After naming his squad for next week’s internationals, De la Fuente responded to Flick’s remarks.
“There’s no conflict with Hansi Flick at all,” the Spain boss said.
“I was just surprised by his words because he’s been a national team manager and I thought he’d have more empathy towards other national managers, that’s all.
“This thing with Flick comes second, third, fourth or maybe fifth on my list. It’s just a statement from a coach, that’s all.”
Spain play two more World Cup qualifiers in the upcoming international break, and with the hope of having Yamal fit and available, it is clear where De la Fuente’s priorities lie.
“The most important thing on my list is that we’re playing against Georgia and Bulgaria. The World Cup is at stake. That’s what’s really important,” he said.
“I want to take care only of the important things. And this (Flick’s comments) isn’t one of them. We said what we said, period.”
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Video credit: TNT Sports
Asked whether De la Fuente really takes no risks with the players’ injuries, considering Yamal, he added: “The risk in sports is always there. But is he playing in his club? Is he? Not now, but was he when he came here last time?
“So that’s it. If he’s playing in his club, it’s because they’re also assuming the level of risk that allegedly exists. Right? So there’s that.
“If he’s playing in his club, he’s going to play here too. Just like he does in his club.”
Yamal has made 23 appearances for Spain – all of which have come under De la Fuente – and has scored six goals, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s UEFA European Championship success in 2024.
