Lamine Yamal explains why he does not want to play at both Euro 2024 and Olympics as Barcelona sensation picks his preferred competition

Yamal, a cherished treasure of Luis de la Fuente, is faced with the possibility of participating in both the Euro 2024 and the Olympics. However, concerns have emerged within the Barcelona camp regarding the potential strain on the young player if he were to compete in both competitions in quick succession. The club is keen to avoid a scenario similar to 2021, where Pedri's fitness suffered due to the demanding schedule of multiple international tournaments.

In light of these concerns, Yamal recently addressed the issue himself in an interview withMundo Deportivo, acknowledging the challenges of participating in both the Euros and the Olympics.

"It wouldn't be wise to participate in both tournaments," he said. "I've always tried to avoid overloading myself and playing excessively, so it wouldn't be logical to do both. But of course, representing Spain is a dream. It depends on how the Euro Cup unfolds, but I believe the priority would be the Euro Cup."

However, Yamal, remains "definitely" open to reconsidering his stance if he is used scarcely in the Euro or Spain exit early from the competition.

Yamal's decision marks a departure from his previous stance, where he had indicated openness to playing in both competitions. However, he now prioritizes the European Championship considering Pedri's erstwhile experiences. While speaking on the Pedri factor, he said: "It’s an example of what can happen because he’s the only one I remember doing it.“

While the Spanish Football Federation has assured Barcelona that they would not overload their youngsters, the Catalans are likely to take measures to prevent their players from participating in both tournaments. Real Madrid have already taken a firm stance, prohibiting their players from competing in two competitions, signalling the importance clubs place on wellbeing and performance. Yamal will be back in action when Barcelona make a trip to Parc des Princes to face Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final.