Barcelona's Rising Star Lamine Yamal Sidelined: What's Behind His Absence Against Valencia?

The effectiveness of an international break is frequently measured by how many players return injured, and using this standard, Barcelona's September international window wasn't particularly successful.

Their La Liga championship defense has gotten off to a turbulent start, and they've already fallen behind Real Madrid in the standings. Hansi Flick's team might be experiencing some early pressure ahead of Sunday night's home match against Valencia, especially after Madrid preserved their perfect record this season with a 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad.

Their challenge against a rejuvenated Carlos Corberán-managed side has become more difficult due to several key missing players. Flick is missing midfielders Gavi and Pedri, though he can rely on Pedri, Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal, who is expected to rejoin the matchday roster after being sidelined for over a year.

The defending champions have adequate depth in Flick's central midfield positions, but concerns exist about the significant and unusual gap on the right wing. The German coach has depended heavily on Lamine Yamal since assuming control, but Barcelona's exceptionally talented young player will be unavailable this weekend.

Why Lamine Yamal Isn't Playing For Barcelona vs. Valencia

Barcelona announced that Yamal is "feeling discomfort in the pubic region" and will miss Sunday night's match against Valencia. Some sources have characterized his condition as a groin problem.

Considering how the injury developed, Flick is understandably angry with Yamal's international team: "He departed to represent Spain while experiencing pain and couldn't participate in training," the Barcelona manager expressed his frustration.

"They administered pain medication to enable his participation. They maintained at least a three-goal advantage in both fixtures, yet he still played 73 and 79 minutes. During the interval between matches, he was unable to train. That's not proper player care. I'm extremely disappointed about this."

Spain have allegedly been 'shocked' by Flick's claims.

When Will Lamine Yamal Return From Injury?

The circumstances are undoubtedly irritating for Flick and Barcelona, but Yamal's absence shouldn't be prolonged. Nevertheless, the coach has already questioned his availability for their Champions League debut against Newcastle United on Thursday.

Currently, no specific return timeline has been established.

His unavailability will require Flick to make adjustments, with Raphinha possibly moving to the right side and Marcus Rashford entering the lineup. The German manager could also deploy Ferran Torres in a wide position.