Barcelona Brace for Anxious Wait as Lamine Yamal's Injury Extent Revealed

Barcelona Brace for Anxious Wait as Lamine Yamal's Injury Extent Revealed

The Spanish football federation announced that Lamine Yamal will not link up with the national squad on Monday alongside his fellow countrymen, after the Barcelona attacker reported "physical discomfort." Nevertheless, Yamal is still anticipated to join La Roja later during the week.

The teenage sensation had a mixed performance against Atlético Madrid in La Liga's summit clash on Sunday. Yamal was individually contained by Alejandro Grimaldo, who bounced back from a shaky opening few duels to stifle the dynamic winger, keeping all five of his attempts off target.

However, once Atlético's intensity dropped in the second half and the match opened up—or "broken" as it's referred to in Spain—Yamal capitalized on the additional space. It was the Barcelona youth product who threaded the ball into the run of fellow Spaniard Fermín López for the decisive 66th-minute goal.

Barcelona secured all three points, though Yamal had some grievances of his own.

What Injury Does Lamine Yamal Have?

Lamine Yamal pointing at an invisible watch.

Yamal's concern lies with his right knee. SPORT reports that "the issue is not serious" and marks the first physical setback of the teenager's campaign.

The World Cup winner sat out the final eight matches of the 2025–26 season with a torn hamstring, which affected his performances for Spain in North America. Yamal would conclude the tournament with one trophy and an equal number of goals, having netted once against Saudi Arabia during the group stage.

There has been no indication of Yamal holding back this season. Sunday's match-winning assist was the 25th direct goal contribution the winger has registered already this campaign, producing figures comparable to Lionel Messi's statistical prime. The 19-year-old is the only player Hansi Flick has selected to start all 16 matches across La Liga and the Champions League. That consistent presence will not carry over at international level.

Spain has virtually confirmed that Yamal will sit out Thursday's penultimate Nations League group-stage fixture against Czechia in Prague. Luis de la Fuente's side has already secured a spot in the quarterfinals in March and may face a showdown with England for first place on Sunday, Nov. 15. Whether Yamal features in that high-profile encounter—which is also set to take place at Atlético's Metropolitano stadium—remains to be seen.

Liverpool Star Called Up to Cover for Yamal

Víctor Muñoz holding the World Cup trophy.

De la Fuente is evidently concerned enough about Yamal's fitness to summon a replacement. The World Cup-winning manager turned to Liverpool's Víctor Muñoz, one of just two outfield players who failed to earn a single minute during the summer tournament.

Since making an impressive debut on Merseyside, Muñoz has been given more international opportunities, coming off the bench in three of Spain's Nations League games during the autumn break. With Yamal's absence looming, the 23-year-old could be set for increased playing time.

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