Lamine Yamal

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Legend Thierry Henry places Lionel Messi’s Argentina ahead of France and Spain for 2026 World Cup

worldsoccertalk.com · 10 hours ago

France legend Thierry Henry made a bold claim positioning Lionel Messi’s Argentina ahead of Les Bleus and Spain in the contention for the 2026 World Cup. With the 2026 World Cup now less than 40 days away, debate over the tournament favorites is heating up. Thierry Henry has weighed in with a bold take, placing Lionel Messi‘s Argentina alongside France and Spain as the leading contenders for the competition set to be held in North America. France, Spain and Argentina currently occupy the top three spots in the FIFA rankings in that order, reflecting the standing of three of the most formidable national teams heading into the tournament. While questions about Argentina’s aging roster might tempt some to relegate them to a tier below, Henry is not among those inclined to do so. Speaking to Marca at a Samsung event in London, Henry was emphatic about giving Argentina the respect the defending champions deserve: “First, you have to show a lot of respect to Argentina, as they are the defending champions. They are still a solid team and they have Messi wearing the number 10.“ Henry and Messi shared a dressing room at FC Barcelona between 2007 and 2010, winning the historic Sextuple together in 2009 before Henry moved on to MLS. With the Argentine star set to turn 39 during the tournament, his former teammate still believes the Albiceleste have more than enough to remain a genuine threat on the world stage. Thierry Henry of France walks past the World Cup trophy following the defeat in the 2006 World Cup final. After paying tribute to his former teammate, Henry offered his assessment of the other two frontrunners. “Then there is us, France; we have a great national team and we have reached the last two finals. And then there is Spain. It amazes me that no matter which players they have, the team always plays the same way: that same attractive style, and it is very difficult to take the ball away from them,” he added. With Messi turning 39 during the tournament, Kylian Mbappe currently 27 and Lamine Yamal set to turn 19 in the middle of the competition, three distinct generations of world-class talent will be on display in North America. Henry also spoke about Yamal and highlighted France’s remarkable consistency, having reached four of the last seven World Cup finals, expressing quiet confidence ahead of the 2026 edition. Henry and the other teams to watch While Argentina, Spain and France stand out as the clear frontrunners, the expanded 48-team field with a Round of 32 adds a significant layer of unpredictability, giving a wider range of nations a realistic path to the final stages and making it harder than ever to discount the rest of the field. When asked about other nations worth watching, Henry singled out Portugal and made a point of mentioning Cristiano Ronaldo: “I love Portugal’s midfield: João Neves, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes… with Nuno Mendes and others at the back… and up front they have the monster (Ronaldo). I think that team has to be respected.“ With Portugal arriving as reigning UEFA Nations League champions, Henry also cast his eye further across the field. “Additionally, there is England, the potential awakening of Brazil, Norway, Senegal, the new Germany. The truth is that in a World Cup, many things can happen, and it depends on injuries, the brackets, and so on,” he concluded, leaving the door open for several nations to spring a surprise in North America.

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Spain manager Luis de la Fuente issues Lamine Yamal injury update ahead of 2026 World Cup

sports.yahoo.com · 11 hours ago

It is already known that Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal will not play again this season, but it is hoped that he’ll be at the 2026 World Cup with Spain. The hamstring injury he sustained in the 1-0 v...

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Lionel Messi’s character hailed by Spain manager Luis de la Fuente: ‘That’s how greats are’

worldsoccertalk.com · 13 hours ago

Lionel Messi's character was put as an example by Spain manager Luis de la Fuente. The number of virtues Lionel Messi has on the field is countless. His talent can only be compared with that of a few players in the history of the sport, but he also has a distinctive character. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente hailed the Argentine with some kind words. De la Fuente said: “You don’t have to try to convince someone you are a good person. Be one. Sacrificing yourself for the person next to you is being a good person in football. That’s how greats are. Messi is a great player and a great person. Those who are that way can give you more than someone else who may have more qualities but isn’t like that.” This statement was part of many interesting quotes from De la Fuente, who spoke with the media in a press conference where he introduced his new book entitled “La vida se entrena cada día” (life is trained every day), in which he details the journey of his sporting life to the present time. De la Fuente on Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams While the idea behind this event was to present his book, there was obviously much curiosity about how the Spain manager sees topics like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Yamal should recover from a muscle injury (Alex Caparros/Getty Images) The main thing to avoid for the manager are injuries, which raise some doubt about the participation of these players, who have dealt with issues and are clearly important pieces when they are at their best. De la Fuente said: “Yamal and Williams are very important players to us, but the rest are too. I hope and I’m sure they’ll be recovered. I’m convinced they are all going to be healthy.” De la Fuente on Dani Carvajal Last week was unfortunate for the manager, with another player getting injured. Dani Carvajal sustained a fracture of the distal phalanx of the fifth toe on his right foot, as Real Madrid detailed, but he may not be out for too long. De la Fuente said: “Carvajal is an important figure in our dressing room. I spoke to him. What he has is not severe, but he needs time. He knows the decision I make comes from normality. We would all celebrate if he were at his level. Myself first.”

Former Barcelona youth coach lavishes praise on Lamine Yamal – ‘You know there’s something special’

sports.yahoo.com · 18 hours ago

The meteoric rise of Lamine Yamal at FC Barcelona, at the tender age of only 18 years, has not been a coincidence. From his earliest steps in youth football, the La Masia forward showed clear signs of...

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Lamine Yamal outperforms Lionel Messi in first three years after Barcelona debut with record numbers

worldsoccertalk.com · yesterday

After three years from his professional debut at FC Barcelona, Lamine Yamal has outperformed Lionel Messi over that same span with record numbers. Lamine Yamal made his professional debut at FC Barcelona at just 15 years old, and in the time since he has systematically shattered every record of precocity within his reach. Three years on from that historic moment, the numbers he has posted in that span surpass even those of Lionel Messi at the same stage. Back in the 2022-23 season, coach Xavi Hernández placed his trust in a group of young players as he looked to rebuild Barcelona amid a severe financial crisis. Yamal was among those who emerged during that period, making his debut on April 29, 2023, when he came off the bench in the 86th minute for Gavi in a 4-0 win over Real Betis, becoming the youngest player in the club’s history to appear in La Liga at 15 years, nine months and 16 days old. Three years on from those brief minutes off the bench, that teenager has developed into one of the best players in the world. Still yet to turn 19, with his birthday falling on July 13, Yamal, currently sidelined through injury, will have the chance to make his World Cup debut when the 2026 edition gets underway in North America. According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, across Barcelona and the Spain national team, Yamal has accumulated 12,928 minutes of action spread across 176 appearances. His production in those minutes has been equally impressive, totaling 57 goals and 55 assists between club and country. Gavi of FC Barcelona is substituted off for Lamine Yamal in the game against Real Betis. Yamal has already finished as runner-up for the 2025 Ballon d’Or behind Ousmane Dembele and claimed the Golden Boy award, but the accolades are only part of the story. His trophy cabinet already includes a Euro with Spain in 2024, two Spanish Super Cups, a Copa del Rey and two La Liga titles, with a third league title looking imminent, a collection that only hints at what may lie ahead in the years to come. Messi at the same age: a very different starting point Unlike Yamal, Lionel Messi did not emerge at a club in crisis. When he broke into Barcelona’s first team, he was surrounded by generational talents including Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto’o and Deco. His professional debut came on October 16, 2004, at 17 years of age, two years older than Yamal was when he first appeared, and with numbers that the young Spaniard has since surpassed. Measured against the same milestone of approaching the age of 19, Messi had accumulated just 1,954 minutes across Barcelona and the Argentina national team. His early output was solid rather than spectacular, amounting to 10 goals and six assists in less than two years of professional action. The gap becomes even more pronounced when matched against Yamal’s specific three-year timeline from debut to present. Over that same stretch, Messi had logged 6,612 minutes across 102 club and international appearances, roughly half of Yamal’s total, contributing 41 goals and 15 assists. While his goals-per-minute ratio was sharper, the overall volume and range of Yamal’s early impact stands in a category of its own.

Lamine Yamal earns Thierry Henry’s praise ahead of 2026 World Cup: ‘Who does that?’

worldsoccertalk.com · yesterday

Thierry Henry spoke about his expectations for Lamine Yamal ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. There is no doubt that Lamine Yamal will be one of the main attractions at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Spanish winger has already earned a prominent place in world soccer and will now aim to achieve the ultimate prize with Spain. A Barcelona legend, Thierry Henry, shared his thoughts on him. “I’m looking forward to watch the World Cup,” Henry said in a recent interview with Marca. “I hope that Lamine is gonna be there, fresh, and perform, because what you want is to see the best players on that stage, able to perform. Even if I’m not Spanish, you want to see Lamine Yamal there.” Henry then highlighted a specific trait that stands out to him about Yamal. “We all know he’s an outstanding player. You know what I like about Lamine? I saw something at the Euro that I rarely saw at that age,” the former forward began. “You guys will not remember, it was against France. He received the ball on the right. He could have gone on the counter, but he told the whole team ‘calm down,’” Henry recalled. “Who does that at 16 years old? You don’t have that that early. I was like ‘Already? You understand? He plays like he’s in his neighborhood. World Cup or not, intensity is the same. He tries to play, he tries to dribble, he takes risks. That’s the type of player you want to see.” Lamine Yamal suffered an injury during a game between Barcelona and Celta Vigo, on April 22. Having been a young prodigy himself—a World Cup winner in 1998 at just 19 years old—Thierry Henry was impressed not only by Yamal’s talent on the ball, but also by his understanding of the game and his ability to read what each moment requires. Lamine Yamal continues his recovery It is no coincidence that one of the first things Thierry Henry mentioned about Lamine Yamal was his hope that he arrives “fresh” at the World Cup. That is because, at the moment, Spain’s main concern regarding the young winger is that he fully recovers from the muscle injury he suffered with Barcelona just two weeks ago. In that regard, the latest updates have been positive. With his club season officially over, Yamal is working hard to be in optimal condition for the start of the World Cup. In fact, this Tuesday he shared a story on his official Instagram account showing him training on a stationary bike, a sign that his recovery is progressing well. 🚨🚴🏾‍♂️ Lamine Yamal begins training on grass and working in the gym.He’s expected to be ready for World Cup. pic.twitter.com/CyOqC2scZJ— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 5, 2026 Henry on the difference between World Cup and Champions League Having won both the World Cup with France and the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona, Thierry Henry is well qualified to compare the two biggest competitions in soccer. “As I always say, the World Cup is every four years, that’s what makes it extra special. The Champions League is every year, you always have the chance to win it every year,” the former forward explained in the same interview with Marca. “The World Cup is a different game, so I’m really excited.”

Julián Álvarez’s arrival in danger as Barcelona reportedly target Gonçalo Ramos as alternative striker reinforcement

worldsoccertalk.com · 2 days ago

After serious issues in front of goal, Barcelona have decided to target Julián Álvarez as a reliable reinforcement. However, given the major difficulties in negotiating with Atlético Madrid, the Blaugrana are reportedly turning to Gonçalo Ramos as an alternative. Throughout the 2025–26 season, Barcelona have struggled in terms of goal scoring, as Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres have both experienced a significant dip in form. In response, Julián Álvarez emerged as the ideal solution. However, Atlético Madrid are not very open to letting him leave, forcing to look for alternatives. As a result, the Blaugranas have reportedly turned their attention to Gonçalo Ramos as a reliable reinforcement in the forward line. According to TEAMtalk, the Blaugrana have decided to add Gonçalo Ramos as a potential transfer target, following Chelsea’s rejection of João Pedro. Having fallen out of the starting lineup under head coach Luis Enrique, PSG are open to letting the Portuguese forward leave, as Ousmane Dembélé has taken over the starting role in attack. Because of this, the Spanish side may not face many obstacles in securing his arrival. While Paris Saint-Germain paid €65M + €15M in variables to SL Benfica for Gonçalo Ramos, he has only played 1,532 minutes, in which he has scored 12 goals, falling short of expectations this season. In addition, Ousmane Dembélé’s emergence has pushed him into a secondary role, making his departure a real possibility. The Portuguese striker has proven to be a very complete player, fitting well into Hansi Flick’s possession-based style of play. Far from being a guaranteed signing, the Blaugrana could be taking a rather uncertain decision. Although he shone at SL Benfica, Gonçalo has not managed to prove as a difference-maker at PSG, making several mistakes in important matches that ultimately relegated him to a bench role. However, Ramos could represent a strong opportunity if he arrives for an affordable transfer fee, as he has already shown his potential and could flourish under head coach Hansi Flick. Wojciech Szczesny of FC Barcelona saves the shot of Goncalo Ramos of Paris Saint-Germain. Gonçalo Ramos raises doubts, while Julián Álvarez guarantees goals Following numerous inconsistencies in front of goal, Barcelona appear determined to reinforce their attacking line, even being open to letting Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski leave, signalling a drastic change. With this in mind, a potential move for Julián Álvarez of Atlético Madrid for around €100M had strong consensus, as he is in top form and highly consistent. However, the option of Gonçalo Ramos raises several doubts. Julián Álvarez has proven to be one of the best forwards in the world, shining with Argentina at the 2022 World Cup and becoming an undisputed starter for Atlético Madrid. Beyond being a goalscorer, he also contributes to collective play, making him compatible with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. It differs from Gonçalo Ramos, as he has struggled to fit in alongside Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé, often remaining a substitute and missing several clear chances. Alongside Ramos’s inconsistency, PSG may not make things easy for Barcelona to sign the Portuguese striker, and his high cost relative to his performances would also be a deterrent. However, if Barcelona manage to secure his arrival on loan, he could become one of the best options available, similar to what they did with Marcus Rashford, unlocking his potential under Hansi Flick.

Barcelona make their position over Lamine Yamal clear to Spain NT ahead of World Cup

sports.yahoo.com · 2 days ago

Barcelona are currently operating without their star forward, Lamine Yamal, who may not feature again this season after having picked up a fresh injury.Although the Spaniard should return to fitness s...

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Barcelona superstar begins training on grass with FIFA World Cup as his target

sports.yahoo.com · 2 days ago

Lamine Yamal’s injury came as a massive blow to FC Barcelona and Hansi Flick’s plans, but the team have bounced back well with two wins in two games after his setback.While it is clear that the te...

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Barcelona gem hailed as ‘in a league of his own’ by club legend

sports.yahoo.com · 2 days ago

Lamine Yamal continues to attract admiration from some of the biggest names in football, and the latest praise has come from a true Barcelona icon. Former Barça and France forward Thierry Henry has ...

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Report: Raphinha refuses to be transferred, while Barcelona could receive a €90 M offer from the Saudi Pro League

worldsoccertalk.com · 3 days ago

With Hansi Flick’s arrival at Barcelona, Raphinha has become one of the best players in the world. Following his strong performances, the Blaugrana are reportedly set to receive a €90M offer from the Saudi Pro League, but the Brazilian refuses to be transferred, creating serious uncertainty. Raphinha has emerged as one of the world’s top players under Hansi Flick, powering Barcelona‘s attack with both goals and assists. Despite his solid performances, the Brazilian star is not experiencing his best season due to several injuries. Nevertheless, he continues to attract the attention of many teams as the Blaugranas could receive a €90M offer from the Saudi Pro League, but his refusal to consider a transfer has raised questions. According to Sacha Tavolieri via SkySports, the Blaugranas are aware they will receive a €90 million offer from the Saudi Pro League, managed directly by agent Pini Zahavi. With this, Raphinha could be tempted by a contract running beyond 2028 and a salary of €30 million net per season. While he is a key player for head coach Hansi Flick, they are open to his departure for a major fee, as they aim to raise funds to pursue new signings. Despite the multimillion-dollar offer, Raphinha is fully determined to stay at Barcelona, rejecting any move in the summer of 2026. His wife, Taia Belloli, even reacted with laughing emojis to a Diario AS report suggesting the Brazilian was looking to leave the club after the UEFA Champions League exit. However, the Blaugrana are still considering his departure as an extreme measure if they are unable to complete the sales of other stars. In case he stays at Barcelona, head coach Hansi Flick will likely keep him as an undisputed starter, as he has managed to stand out in terms of goalscoring despite his physical issues. With this in mind, the Brazilian star could aim to first win the UEFA Champions League with the Blaugranas, serving as a key attacking figure alongside Lamine Yamal. Given his importance in the squad, the 29-year-old could remain at the club at all costs. Raphinha of FC Barcelona scores against Atletico Madrid. Barcelona reportedly chase promising backup for Raphinha Throughout the 2025–26 season, Raphinha has suffered four muscle injuries, causing him to miss 23 matches, with Marcus Rashford and Dani Olmo stepping in as his replacements in the starting lineup. For this reason, Barcelona are reportedly determined to pursue the signing of a left winger, as the Brazilian star is already 29 years old and his recurring muscle issues raise serious concerns. For this reason, Jan Virgili’s comeback is gaining increasing momentum. While Marcus Rashford and Víctor Muñoz have emerged as marquee options, the high price of the Englishman and Real Madrid’s buy-back rights complicate a move for the Spaniard. With this in mind, Barcelona are reportedly targeting the return of Jan Virgili, who was transferred to RCD Mallorca. Holding 40% of his future sale, Barcelona could re-sign the 19-year-old star for around €24M, making him the most viable long-term option. If Virgili’s return is confirmed, Raphinha would become the ideal mentor for the Spaniard, guiding his development as a veteran leader. Far from complicating matters, this would actually strengthen the Brazilian’s position, as the 19-year-old star might not yet be ready to be an undisputed starter, needing his presence to continue his development. Furthermore, Jan is a Barcelona youth product, so he would have no trouble adapting to Hansi Flick’s style.

Barcelona forward target fuels transfer talk with teasing hint over future move: ‘Would love to have Lamine Yamal as teammate’

sports.yahoo.com · 4 days ago

Barcelona’s search for young attacking talent has led them to monitor Armando Gonzalez, and while nothing concrete has developed yet, the player himself has now added fuel to the conversation with h...

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Why isn’t Lamine Yamal playing for Barcelona in crucial La Liga title clash against Osasuna?

worldsoccertalk.com · 5 days ago

The spotlight falls once again on Lamine Yamal as Barcelona prepares for a decisive La Liga clash, yet one crucial detail lingers beneath the surface. The spotlight falls once again on Lamine Yamal as Barcelona prepares for a decisive La Liga clash, yet one crucial detail lingers beneath the surface. The absence of one of the season’s standout performers comes at a time when the club is on the brink of glory, adding intrigue to an already high-stakes encounter. The match in Pamplona carries enormous weight, with Barcelona edging closer to sealing the league title. Yet the spotlight has shifted toward the young winger’s absence, raising questions about how the team will cope without one of its most influential attacking players. Hansi Flick and his players arrive at El Sadar knowing that a victory could push them to the verge of clinching La Liga, depending on other results. The Catalan club sits comfortably at the top of the table with a commanding lead of 11 points over Real Madrid, leaving little margin for error for its rival. Despite the favorable position, the challenge remains significant, as Osasuna has built a reputation for being extremely difficult to beat at home. The host enters the fixture with strong home form and plenty of pride at stake, making the encounter far from straightforward. Why Lamine Yamal is missing The mystery surrounding Yamal’s absence becomes clearer in the context of recent events. The 18-year-old forward suffered a hamstring injury during a match against Celta Vigo on April 22, forcing him off the pitch shortly after scoring. Barcelona later confirmed the setback, stating that he would miss the remainder of the domestic season while following a conservative recovery plan. The club emphasized long-term fitness, particularly with the international calendar approaching. Yamal himself addressed the situation, sharing his frustration in an emotional message: “This injury leaves me off the field at the time I most wanted to be, and it hurts more than I can explain.” He added, “It hurts not being able to fight with my teammates, not being able to help when the team needs me.” 🎥 | The moment when Lamine Yamal felt the injury after scoring his penalty against Celta Vigo. 😕💔 pic.twitter.com/XBT8HazLzf— Access Yamal (@AccessYamal) April 22, 2026 Blow to Barcelona’s attack with title within reach The absence of Yamal removes a vital creative outlet for Barcelona. The young winger has been one of the most decisive players this season, contributing goals and assists while stretching defenses with his pace and skill. Without him, the responsibility shifts to alternatives such as Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, and emerging talents tasked with filling the void. The tactical balance may also change, with a greater emphasis on midfield control and collective attacking movement. Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona reacts to an injury after scoring. Even with this setback, Barcelona remains firmly in control of the title race. The team has won nine consecutive league matches, demonstrating a level of consistency unmatched by its rivals. There are multiple scenarios in which the club can secure the championship, including the possibility of doing so before the upcoming El Clasico. Regardless of timing, the trajectory suggests that the Blaugrana’s dominance this season is unlikely to be overturned.

Raphinha at risk of missing El Clasico vs Real Madrid despite recovering from injury

worldsoccertalk.com · 6 days ago

Real Madrid and Barcelona will face off next week, and Raphinha is at risk of missing that match. Barcelona are on the verge of securing the La Liga title, something that could happen next week in El Clasico against Real Madrid. Raphinha could miss that game, but not due to fitness issues—rather because of a potential suspension. The Brazilian winger is set to return to action this weekend after a month out with a hamstring injury. He will be included in coach Hansi Flick’s squad to visit Osasuna this Saturday on Matchday 35 of La Liga, but he will need to be cautious. Raphinha has accumulated four yellow cards this season and is one booking away from suspension. If he receives another yellow in any of the remaining La Liga matches this campaign, he will have to serve a one-game ban. Considering his long absence, it is unlikely he will be part of the starting lineup this Saturday against Osasuna. However, Flick is expected to give him minutes in the second half to help him regain match fitness ahead of El Clasico against Real Madrid next week—something that also carries risk, as it could expose him to another booking. Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona. Barcelona need Raphinha While the La Liga title appears all but secured for Barcelona, they know they cannot afford to relax. And even if they clinch the trophy, El Clasico is a challenge significant enough on its own to demand full focus. That is why having Raphinha back is so important. He has been one of the team’s most decisive attacking players, and his role becomes even more crucial given Lamine Yamal’s absence due to injury. Raphinha has been out of action since March 26, when he suffered a hamstring injury during Brazil’s friendly match against France over the international break. Since then, he has undergone a recovery process that kept him sidelined for more than a month, missing four La Liga matches and the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal series against Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid prioritize El Clasico While Barcelona must take Saturday’s match against Osasuna seriously in their push to secure the La Liga title, Real Madrid know their main objective lies next week in El Clasico. As a result, their squad will be missing several key players this Sunday against Espanyol. Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa will not risk some important players dealing with fitness issues, prioritizing their readiness for the match against Barcelona. Kylian Mbappe and Thibaut Courtois have been ruled out for Sunday but are expected to be in optimal condition for El Clasico.

Lamine Yamal injury update: Barcelona coach Flick shares good news ahead of 2026 World Cup

worldsoccertalk.com · 6 days ago

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed optimism about Lamine Yamal’s recovery ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season with Barcelona, Lamine Yamal is now focused on fully recovering from a muscle injury in order to arrive in top condition for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Spain. Head coach Hansi Flick addressed the situation. “I think we’ll see him at the World Cup. He has more time to recover calmly and everything is going well. That’s what he wants, and he’ll be there,” Flick said Friday during a press conference ahead of Barcelona’s La Liga match against Osasuna on Saturday. Yamal suffered a hamstring injury in his left leg on April 22, after scoring a penalty in Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Celta Vigo. Medical tests indicated that the winger will not return to action before the end of the club season, meaning his priority is now to be part of Spain’s squad for North America 2026. With that in mind, Barcelona and Spain are working together to support his recovery. “We’re in contact with the Federation’s medical staff, as well as our own. I’m in contact with Lamine, and he’s progressing well, which is the most important thing,” Flick said. Spain coach Luis De La Fuente. Luis De La Fuente’s view This week, Luis De La Fuente was asked about Lamine Yamal’s availability for the 2026 FIFA World Cup during a medical symposium at the CEMTRO clinic in Madrid. While he avoided addressing the specific case directly, he offered an encouraging response. The head coach said his priority is “to arrive at the decisive stage with the best possible team,” placing particular emphasis on the latter rounds of the tournament. “There are players who can come in less than fully fit and still make a difference in the knockout stages,” he added. Those comments are key to understanding Yamal’s situation. Amid speculation that he might not be ready for the first two matches of the World Cup, the winger does not appear to be at risk of missing Spain’s roster, considering De La Fuente is comfortable having him reach full fitness later in the tournament. Lamine Yamal’s timeline ahead of the World Cup With the 2026 World Cup just 42 days away, the first key deadline for Spain regarding Lamine Yamal is May 11. On that date, each national team must submit to FIFA a preliminary list of between 35 and 55 players under consideration for the tournament. Then, once club competitions conclude, that list must be trimmed down to 26 players by no later than June 1. Spain will open their World Cup campaign on June 15 against Cape Verde, but their path in the knockout stages would not begin until at least June 30—giving Lamine Yamal more than enough time to recover.

Report: Lamine Yamal could miss Spain’s first two World Cup games as Barcelona monitor star during tournament

worldsoccertalk.com · 6 days ago

In a scenario where he could miss the first two games of the 2026 World Cup, Lamine Yamal is reportedly set to be monitored by Barcelona during his time at the Spain national team. Lamine Yamal‘s injury has set off alarms, especially within the Spain national team, which must remain cautious in its approach to his recovery ahead of the 2026 World Cup. To ensure he reaches 100% fitness, reports suggest the star could miss the first two games for La Roja, with FC Barcelona set to monitor the 18-year-old throughout the tournament in North America. Reports have surfaced revealing a meeting between Barcelona representatives and Spanish Federation physiotherapists to establish a proper recovery plan for Yamal. However, the aspirations of the national team and the health of the youngster must not be at odds, at least from Barcelona’s perspective. According to Diario Sport, FC Barcelona see as a good solution for Lamine Yamal to miss both the first and the second games of the World Cup against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. This alternative is seen in order for the winger to be completely recovered from his hamstring injury and avoid any setback. As reported by the Spanish outlet, the plan suggested by Barcelona staff is for Yamal to be 100% ready for the third and final group stage game against Uruguay. That match, which is expected to decide who wins the group, is scheduled for June 27th, a date that aligns with his six-to-seven-week recovery timeline. Lamine Yamal of Spain controls the ball while under pressure from Ahmed Fatouh of Egypt. Currently ranked 2nd in the FIFA Rankings, Spain enters the 2026 World Cup as a top candidate. However, Yamal’s fitness has become a growing concern for La Roja, with coach Luis de la Fuente commenting on the situation and expressing hope that Yamal will be fit to lead the push into the knockout stage. Barcelona to address Yamal’s fitness during World Cup Yamal’s hamstring injury has effectively ended his season with FC Barcelona, meaning he will miss El Clasico and the remainder of the La Liga campaign, where the Blaugrana are expected to lift the trophy with an 11-point lead over Real Madrid. Still, the club is determined to prevent the injury from having long-term consequences and will closely monitor his condition during the World Cup. As reported by Diario AS, Fernando Galan, an external physiotherapist working for Barcelona, will be in charge of supervising Lamine Yamal for both club and with Spain national team. His role will gain more relevance during the World Cup, as he has been assigned to send daily reports to club authorities regarding Yamal’s progress. Galan will be responsible for Yamal’s health and ensuring he returns to the pitch in the best possible condition. Given the nature of a hamstring injury and Yamal’s playing style, which relies on explosiveness and constant changes of direction, a setback is a major fear. Using Raphinha’s recent history as a precedent, a personalized program will be implemented as soon as he is recovered.

Spain coach De La Fuente addresses injury concerns after Lamine Yamal scare ahead of 2026 World Cup

worldsoccertalk.com · 7 days ago

Lamine Yamal’s injury scare has raised concerns in Spain just over a month before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, something head coach Luis De La Fuente addressed this week. In one month, Luis De La Fuente will have to confirm the final 26-man roster that will represent Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That means any last-minute injury could alter his plans—something highlighted by the recent scare involving Lamine Yamal. De La Fuente spoke during a medical symposium at the CEMTRO clinic in Madrid this week. “Will Lamine be there?” was one of the questions posed to the coach regarding the availability of the Barcelona winger for Spain’s World Cup squad. “In a call-up, we consider every scenario—whether you’re winning, losing, or if the opponent goes down to 10 men,” De La Fuente said, according to Marca. “There are players who can give you 20 minutes, and that has enormous value. Some players may not be able to give you 50 or 60 minutes, but they can deliver 20 very good ones—and that can make the difference.” In that sense, the coach avoided addressing Yamal’s specific case but made it clear that his presence could still be crucial even if he is not at full fitness at the start of the World Cup. “Our priority is to arrive at the decisive stage with the best possible team,” he explained. Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona reacts to an injury after scoring. De La Fuente has experience managing these situations In nearly four years as Spain coach, Luis De La Fuente has faced situations that forced him to make difficult decisions, and that experience is now shaping his approach ahead of North America 2026. To explain his thinking regarding players who may not be at 100 percent for the World Cup, the coach cited an example from Euro 2024, where Spain were crowned champions. “Olmo arrived injured—we were close to leaving him out—but he went on to be decisive at the Euro. There are players who can come in less than fully fit and still make a difference in the knockout stages. Olmo was decisive from the quarterfinals onward,” De La Fuente said, referring to Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo. Based on those comments, it can be inferred that Lamine Yamal’s place at the World Cup could be secure even if he does not fully recover before the tournament begins. Spain’s group-stage path includes matches against Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay, but the coach’s priority appears to be the knockout rounds that follow. De La Fuente points to the schedule In the same conversation, Luis De La Fuente shared his views on the growing number of injuries among elite players. “The pace is so intense, with matches every three or four days, that injuries are inevitable,” said the Spain coach. “It’s one thing to recover, and another to return to peak performance. The biggest risk when a player comes back is suffering another injury.”

World Cup 2026 injury news and updates as Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, Estevao and more battle to prove fitness

independent.co.uk · last week

Some of the world’s best players are facing a race to be fit for this summer’s tournament, with the group stages starting on 11 June

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Christian Pulisic’s Milan and Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona braced for FIFA’s major change in European leagues after 2026 World Cup

worldsoccertalk.com · last week

Christian Pulisic’s Milan and Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona could soon find themselves at the center of a dramatic new era in soccer after FIFA reportedly began shaping plans for a major change to how domestic leagues operate after the 2026 World Cup. The proposal has already sparked debate across Europe, with supporters, clubs, and league officials […] Christian Pulisic’s Milan and Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona could soon find themselves at the center of a dramatic new era in soccer after FIFA reportedly began shaping plans for a major change to how domestic leagues operate after the 2026 World Cup. The proposal has already sparked debate across Europe, with supporters, clubs, and league officials weighing the possible consequences. For years, top European sides have searched for ways to grow their global reach, especially in markets such as the United States, Asia, and Australia. Now, FIFA appears ready to formalize a system that could reshape traditional domestic competition and create new commercial opportunities for the sport’s biggest names. European soccer has become an increasingly worldwide product, with clubs attracting millions of fans far beyond their home cities. Sides such as Barcelona, Milan, Real Madrid, and Manchester City already tour internationally every summer, filling stadiums and generating major revenue. According to reliable outlets The Guardian and The Athletic, FIFA believes the demand for meaningful competitive matches outside Europe can no longer be ignored. Instead of resisting the trend, world soccer’s governing body now wants to regulate it carefully. FIFA President Gianni Infantino. That demand has been especially visible in North America, where ticket sales for elite clubs remain strong. FIFA also recognizes that the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico could accelerate soccer’s commercial growth even further. FIFA’s change that could reshape the game As a result, European domestic leagues may soon be allowed to play one official league match abroad each season. If approved, it would mark a historic break from tradition, with league fixtures no longer guaranteed to remain inside their own countries. Host nations would reportedly be capped at five foreign league matches per season, preventing one market from dominating the calendar. FIFA would also retain the final right to approve or reject every request. That means a future La Liga match involving Barcelona could be staged in Miami, while Serie A could send Milan to play in another overseas venue. Similar ideas were discussed before, but now they appear closer than ever to reality. Lamine Yamal of Barcelona Why Barcelona and Milan are on alert Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona was previously linked with plans to play Villarreal in Miami, while Milan and Christian Pulisic had explored taking a fixture against Como to Perth, Australia. Both proposals eventually collapsed after resistance from authorities, supporter groups, and soccer stakeholders. Those failed attempts now look like early tests for a broader movement. If FIFA approves the new framework, these clubs would likely be among the first to revisit overseas league matches because of their huge international fanbases. For stars such as Christian Pulisic and Lamine Yamal, it could also mean playing competitive domestic soccer in front of fans who rarely get the chance to watch them live. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan celebrates after scoring a goal. Strict rules would apply FIFA’s proposal is not a free pass for leagues to move games wherever they want. The Guardian suggests any match would need approval from the domestic federation, the continental confederation, the host country’s federation, the host confederation, and FIFA itself. There would also be protections for supporters and players. Clubs may need to offer compensation or travel assistance to season-ticket holders who lose a home match. Travel fatigue is another major concern. FIFA is said to be examining workload issues caref

The (long) list of injured players 45 days before the World Cup

sports.yahoo.com · last week

Some very big names, unfortunately...Lamine Yamal on Wednesday; Kylian Mbappé on Friday; Mohamed Salah, Kai Havertz, Eberechi Eze and Xavi Simons this Saturday: with less than two months to go before...

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