Lamine Yamal sidelined for season, eyes World Cup comeback
Lamine Yamal sidelined for season, eyes World Cup comeback
Barcelona confirm Lamine Yamal's hamstring injury will sideline him this season, but the teen star is expected to be fit for Spain's World Cup campaign.
Lamine Yamal has suffered a left hamstring injury and will miss the rest of the season, with Barcelona saying he will undergo conservative treatment and is expected to be fit in time for the World Cup. Tests confirmed a hamstring injury in his left leg, a blow that could have otherwise sidelined him for longer but leaves a clear path to recovery before international duty.
The injury occurred during Barcelona's 1-0 La Liga victory over Celta Vigo, a moment that drew concern as the 18-year-old walked off clutching the affected area after scoring a penalty and being substituted by Roony Bardghji. Yamal later posted on social media to acknowledge the setback, saying this injury is not the end but a break, and promising to come back stronger next season. He remains Barcelona's top scorer this season with 24 goals in all competitions, despite earlier groin issues that kept him out in September and October, and he has been a key figure for Spain since his 2023 debut.
Spain’s World Cup campaign remains on track, with Group H fixtures set to begin on June 15 against Cape Verde, followed by clashes with Saudi Arabia on June 21 and Uruguay six days later, as the tournament runs from June 11 to July 19 this year. Yamal, who was part of Spain’s Euro 2024-winning squad, has spoken about his aim to play in the World Cup, and a successful return could be crucial for both club and country. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick acknowledged the injury, saying, “He wouldn’t leave the pitch without reason. As a coach you have to manage it, you have to live with it. It’s a pity that Lamine is injured now.”
The timing comes as Barcelona sit nine points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the La Liga table with six matches remaining, including a Clasico on May 10. The injury will require careful management to balance club priorities with international preparation, but the early prognosis and Yamal’s past resilience offer optimism that Spain’s rising star can be ready for the World Cup stage.
