Lamine Yamal set to miss Spain’s World Cup opener due to hamstring injury
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
Barcelona and Spain sensation Lamine Yamal is expected to miss the start of Spain’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury sustained in late April.
The 18-year-old winger suffered the injury to the biceps femoris muscle in his left leg during a La Liga match against Celta Vigo, where he scored the winning penalty before being forced off.
Barcelona confirmed that Yamal would follow a conservative treatment plan without surgery and miss the remainder of the 2025-26 domestic season.
At the time, the club expressed optimism that he would be available for the World Cup in North America.
Initial projections indicated a recovery timeline of approximately six to eight weeks.
Recent reports, however, indicate a more cautious outlook from Spanish national team staff.
Yamal is set to sit out Spain’s Group H opener against Cape Verde on June 15 in Atlanta.
He remains a major doubt for the second group match against Saudi Arabia on June 21, though he could potentially return for the final group game against Uruguay on June 26.
Yamal has enjoyed a remarkable season with Barcelona, registering 24 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions.
His explosive performances and key contributions helped elevate his status as one of world football’s brightest young talents.
He previously starred for Spain in their Euro 2024 triumph, becoming the youngest player to feature in a major tournament final.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente and the coaching staff are prioritizing the teenager’s long-term fitness over a rushed return.
Medical updates suggest his recovery is progressing well, but the national team is determined to avoid any risk of re-injury that could affect his future career.
The absence of Yamal in the early stages of the tournament represents a notable setback for the defending European champions, who are among the favorites in a competitive group.
Depth options on the right wing, including players such as Nico Williams or Yeremy Pino, may be called upon to fill the void during the initial fixtures.
