Lamine Yamal's Persistent Injury Sparks Growing Panic Among Fans and Experts

Lamine Yamal's groin problem continues to cause him discomfort, according to Spanish media reports, with surgical intervention potentially becoming an option to resolve the issue.

The Barcelona winger is dealing with a condition known as "Pubalgia." The club has opted for non-surgical treatment of the ailment, but Yamal's discomfort has remained and he has appeared below his dazzling usual standards in recent matches.

Currently, both Barcelona and Yamal don't expect he'll need an operation to address the issue, according to SPORT, even though the player is still far from complete fitness. Yamal will persist with his existing treatment plan; nevertheless, if the discomfort continues over the next few weeks, surgical intervention to eliminate his persistent problem permanently will be evaluated.

The Catalan club has already consulted external medical experts to evaluate Yamal's condition and obtain additional perspectives on the player's situation, it is reported, but no recommendation has been made that the 18-year-old should have surgery and he has maintained his regular training schedule.

However, it's evident that the discomfort is negatively impacting Yamal's displays. He was largely invisible during Barcelona's El Clásico loss to Real Madrid over the weekend—aside from being involved in an altercation after the final whistle—and his ongoing injury seems to be a major factor.

The Key Attributes Yamal's Injury Are Significantly Affecting

Pubalgia triggers pain around the groin region. It's more of a strain on the pubic area that creates discomfort rather than an actual muscle injury, which explains why the Spanish player has kept playing in recent weeks.

Nevertheless, the symptoms directly affect on-field performance, particularly when attempting rapid changes of speed or direction. These are qualities central to Yamal's excellence, ones that have been diminished recently.

Yamal appeared hesitant throughout the night at the Santiago Bernabéu, hardly resembling the bold approach he displayed when he helped Barcelona secure four consecutive victories against Real Madrid last season. The injury is considered a major contributing factor.

"It's a condition that doesn't prevent a player from participating," Dr. Pedro Luis Ripol explained to MARCA. "But it does change the player. It makes them less quick, less responsive and significantly less able to strike the ball effectively."

Lamine Yamal's 2025–26 Statistics

Since Yamal was initially benched with the injury in late September, he has scored once—from the penalty spot—and provided two assists across five appearances while missing another five matches.

Nevertheless, surgery remains off the table for now, with both player and club optimistic that the current treatment approach will be sufficient to eliminate the ongoing discomfort.

Yamal has maintained normal training this week and is anticipated to feature when Barcelona face Elche on Sunday as they seek to recover from the disappointing El Clásico result.