Lamine Yamal, the 16-year-old Barcelona wonderkid, has taken the football world by storm with his magnificent performances at Euro 2024. However, Spain has been having an unexpected problem because of German labor rules, which means Yamal can’t play full matches that go past 11 pm. Spain and England will eventually play in the Euro 2024 on Sunday, and La Roja runs the risk of playing Yamal for more than 90 minutes.
Lamine Yamal Restricted Under 90 Minutes Due To Germany’s Labor Law
Yamal’s incredible journey at Euro 2024 kicked off against Croatia. He etched his name in the record books as the youngest player to ever grace the European Championship at the tender age of 16 years and 338 days. His assist to Dani Carvajal also means that he is the youngest player to deliver an assist in the tournament.
Lamine Yamal continued to make history as he scored in the semi-final match against France, solidifying his place as the youngest player to ever score in the history of the Euros. He surpassed the previous record set by Swiss player Johan Vonlanthen which stood for nearly two decades. Vonlanthen achieved this at the age of 18 years and 141 days when he scored against France in 2004. However, Yamal managed to break this record at an astonishingly young age of 16 years and 362 days old.
Although Yamal has played so well, German labor rules make things very hard for Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente. As per the regulations, there is a restriction on minors working past 8 pm, although there are exceptions in place for athletes who are permitted to work until 11 pm. Since Lamine Yamal is still a minor, this rule means that he can’t play full games after this time, or else the Spanish Football Association (RFEF) could face fines.
How This Law Has Affected Spain
Yamal has consistently been replaced before the 90-minute mark to adhere to the regulations outlined in the German laws. Throughout the group-stage matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania, he was taken off and did not play 90 minutes. Lamine Yamal’s playtime was expertly managed, even during the quarterfinal against Germany, which kicked off at 6 pm.
The semi-final match against France, which began at 9 pm, was very difficult because it went past the 11 pm limit. Yamal played the whole 90 minutes in this match, which could lead to a fine of 30,000 euros for the RFER, which is about $32,500.
Spain vs. England Showdown!
Spain will play England in the Euro 2024 final, which is set to begin at 9 p.m. German time. Lamine Yamal turns 17 the day before the final, and he will almost certainly be in the starting XI. But the question still stands as to whether he will be replaced to escape legal and financial problems.
To follow German labor rules, Spain can replace Yamal for the second half of the final. Although, if they decide to keep him on the field, they could get a very big fine. The Spanish team might be willing to pay the fine if it means they win the championship. The coaching staff and management may see it as a good investment.
Lamine Yamal’s performance at Euro 2024 has been nothing short of sensational, setting new records and leading Spain to the final. However, the German labor law creates problems for the 16-year-old and the Spanish team. All eyes will be on Spain as they try to avoid this legal issue and win their fourth European Championship.
About The Author
Oladimeji has spent his entire life devoted to playing and watching sports of all kinds. From Soccer to Tennis to NBA and NFL, Oladimeji follows it all. Aside from football, Oladimeji loves writing, engaging in intellectual discourse, and sharpening his critical thinking skills. By his writing, he aspires to engage others in conversation and spread knowledge. Oladimeji’s commitment to his writing, sports, and personal interests reflects his well-rounded approach to life and his continuous pursuit of growth and excellence.
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