Lamine Yamal in World Cup injury scare just months before tournament is due to start

Jack Otway
Thu, 23 Apr 2026 09:34:39 +0000

Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was forced off the pitch with a hamstring problem during Wednesday evening's narrow victory against Celta Vigo at the Nou Camp.

The 18-year-old had just converted from the penalty spot to secure the only goal of the match when he grabbed his left hamstring in obvious discomfort.

His departure from the field has sparked significant concern across Spain, with the World Cup now merely 54 days away.

The young forward, who proved instrumental in Spain's European Championship triumph last summer, was seen limping towards the tunnel as anxious supporters looked on.

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Club medical personnel rushed to attend to the youngster immediately after he signalled his distress, though he managed to leave the playing surface under his own power.

Manager Hansi Flick wasted no time in bringing on Roony Bardghji as Yamal's replacement.

Speaking after the final whistle, teammate Pedri offered words of support for the stricken winger.

"I hope Lamine misses the fewest possible amount of time," the Spanish midfielder said.

"He'll undergo the tests tomorrow and we'll see the nature of the issue. I wish him all the best, and that he stays calm because he's still young."

Medical examinations are scheduled for Thursday to determine the full extent of the damage.

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Spanish outlet Diario AS has reported that Yamal may have sustained a muscle tear, though this remains unconfirmed.

Recovery periods for such injuries vary considerably depending on severity.

A minor grade one tear could see a player return within days, whilst a grade two injury typically requires approximately three weeks of rehabilitation.

The most serious grade three tears can sideline athletes for three months or longer.

Spain are due to face Cape Verde in their opening World Cup fixture on 15 June, giving Yamal roughly eight weeks to recover should the worst be confirmed.

Yamal's fitness is crucial to Spain's ambitions at this summer's tournament in North America, having been a standout performer during their Euro 2024 success.

The teenager has enjoyed a remarkable campaign for Barcelona, finding the net 24 times and providing 17 assists across 44 appearances this season.

While the forward has been troubled by groin complaints throughout the current campaign, Wednesday's setback appears to be an entirely different issue.

Spanish football officials will be anxiously awaiting the results of Thursday's medical tests to learn whether their prized asset will be fit for the global showpiece.