Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal sustained a hamstring injury during a recent match against Celta, sparking concerns about his availability for the 2026 World Cup.

Flick Expresses Confidence

Despite the setback, Spain’s national team manager, Hansi Flick, remains optimistic about the 18-year-old’s recovery and potential inclusion in the squad. Flick acknowledged the difficulty of the situation for both Yamal and the team.

Injury Details and Potential Cause

The injury occurred immediately after Yamal successfully converted a penalty. Flick revealed the injury may have been aggravated during the play leading to the penalty. Yamal initially felt discomfort after being fouled but proceeded to take the penalty, potentially worsening the issue.

Importance of Self-Awareness

Flick emphasized the need for careful management and for Yamal to learn to interpret his body’s signals. This was Yamal’s first muscle injury, adding to the learning curve. He highlighted the importance of recognizing and responding to physical signals, especially for a young player still developing an understanding of his body.

Recovery Timeline and Squad Inclusion

The estimated recovery period for Yamal is six to seven weeks. Reports from Spain suggest he is considered a guaranteed selection for Luis de la Fuente’s 26-man roster. His potential return to full fitness is just days before Spain’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde on June 15th.

The focus will be on gradually reintegrating him into the team and ensuring he is fully prepared. The support from both Barcelona and the Spanish national team underscores their belief in his potential and commitment to his recovery.