Spain’s Lamine Yamal injured but expected to return for World Cup

April 23, 2026 / 6:30 PM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: Lamine Yamal has sustained a hamstring injury but is expected to recover in time for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, according to his club FC Barcelona.

Injury confirmed after La Liga match

Barcelona confirmed that the 18-year-old suffered a left hamstring injury during their 1–0 win over Celta Vigo in La Liga, and he will undergo conservative treatment, ruling him out for the rest of the season.

World Cup return expected

Despite the setback, the club said Yamal is expected to be fit for the World Cup, which begins on June 11, with Spain set to face Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay in Group H.

Key player for club and country

Yamal, who has been a standout performer for Barcelona this season and a key figure for Spain since his debut in 2023, was forced off after scoring in the match. His absence adds to injury concerns for Spain ahead of the tournament, with several other key players also recovering from fitness issues.