- Lamine Yamal could be at risk of breaking German law in Sunday’s final
- The Spanish superstar today celebrated his 17th birthday with his team-mates
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There’s a very small chance that Spanish wonderkid, Lamine Yamal, could miss playing a crucial part in Sunday’s Euro 2024 final if the game cannot be decided in 90 minutes.
The prodigious talent has quickly become integral to Luis de la Fuente’s side, and has become a mainstay in Spain’s first team throughout the Euros.
Yamal has scored twice, including an incredible semi-final equaliser against France, last Tuesday, which helped propel La Roja to Sunday’s final.
His record-breaking streak has defined his participation to date, as he became both the European Championship’s youngest-ever debutant and scorer.
He also tops the assists table with three – an accolade he’ll look to add to, against the Three Lions at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. And just over 24 hours before kick-off on Sunday, Yamal celebrates his 17th birthday.
But despite another trip around the sun, his relative youth could mean he – and the Spanish football association – fall foul of strict German workplace laws.
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However, according to a report from German publication Bild earlier in the tournament, with matches set for kick-off 9pm local time, Yamal could be forced to miss out unless Spain break an employment law relating to under 18s.
German law states those under the age of 18 are prohibited from working later than 8pm.
As an athlete, Yamal has so far received special dispensation from German authorities to continue playing, but this only extends to 11pm.
‘Working activity’ rules state must include things like showering or any post-match media obligations – not just what happens on the pitch.
Should the game therefore go to extra time, German authorities could actually enforce the teenager to be subbed after a full 90 minutes.
If the Spanish team break the rules, they could reportedly be hit with a fine of up to €30,000 (£25,390) for the infraction. They would, however, not face any sporting sanctions.
It remains to be seen what the Spanish team will do, or if Yamal will receive an extra-special exemption German authorities, but it’s a tactical advantage for England neutral fans – and perhaps some English – will not wanting to be gifted, given the performances the teenager has given to the tournament so far.
Yamal has lit up the Euros, after making his senior international debut in a Euro 2024 qualifier against Georgia.
He became the nation’s youngest player and youngest goalscorer after he netted the final goal in a 7-1 win.