Barcelona is dealing with uncertainty across the health of Lamine Yamal as they head into an important Champions League opener in opposition to Newcastle United this Thursday. The La Masia graduate was unable to play in opposition to Valencia resulting from groin discomfort, and he has additionally missed coaching. Until one thing adjustments dramatically, he isn’t anticipated to function within the European fixture.
Yamal picked up a groin damage whereas on worldwide obligation for Spain, however nonetheless performed two high-minute matches—in opposition to Bulgaria and Turkey—regardless of obvious discomfort and reportedly being given painkillers to get by way of them. Barcelona supervisor Hansi Flick has criticized the best way the nationwide workforce managed his situation, saying the younger ahead performed massive minutes regardless of not having the ability to prepare between matches.
Due to his groin problem, Yamal has been dominated out of the LaLiga recreation vs. Valencia. Flick confirmed he’s additionally a “main doubt” for the Champions League recreation at Newcastle United.
His efficiency earlier than the setback
Earlier than being sidelined, Yamal had been off to a really sturdy begin for the 2025-26 season. In three LaLiga matches, he had already scored two targets and offered three assists. That’s a notable contribution for an adolescent in a workforce beneath stress to ship throughout home and European competitions.
Additionally of observe: Yamal’s membership stats present that throughout his profession with Barcelona on the time, he had made 76 appearances and scored 16 targets.
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Different damage doubts & squad concerns
Yamal isn’t the one one doubtful for Barcelona. Midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who was launched early from Netherlands obligation resulting from damage, skilled on Monday and is perhaps obtainable vs. Newcastle.
Supervisor Flick has expressed frustration at what he sees as inadequate care taken by the Spanish nationwide workforce with younger gamers. He mentioned issues like Yamal taking part in with discomfort, with out sufficient relaxation between matches, and with solely minimal remedy.
What it means shifting ahead
With Yamal doubtless out or uncertain, Barcelona might want to modify their attacking plan for each the Valencia match (LaLiga) and Newcastle match (Champions League). The schedule is tight, and lacking such a key artistic participant is a blow. The membership has already confirmed his damage is within the pubic/groin space, and his return relies on how he progresses.
If Yamal recovers in time, he could also be wanted as a set off the bench; if not, they’ll have to discover a alternative to take care of their attacking quantity.
