World Cup 2026: Barcelona alarmed over Lamine Yamal ahead of Spain opener against Cape Verde

Barcelona are growing increasingly concerned about the condition of Lamine Yamal as Spain prepare for the World Cup, with the teenage sensation still recovering from a hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined for weeks.

The Catalan club fear the 18-year-old could be rushed back into action before he is fully ready, potentially compromising both his fitness and long-term availability.

Yamal suffered the injury during Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Celta Vigo in late April and has not featured since. Despite his absence, optimism remains within the Spain camp that he could return in time for their opening Group game against Cape Verde on June 15. National team coach Luis de la Fuente has offered cautious encouragement regarding his recovery.

“These players (Lamine, Mikel Merino, Nico Williams) are making good progress in their recovery,” he said. “I think they’ll all be available for the first match, but we’ll assess whether it’s worth them playing that game, not so much because of the risk involved, but because our focus goes beyond just the second or third match.”

According to Sport, Barcelona’s internal concern is not necessarily about Spain’s medical management, but the possibility of Yamal being pushed too quickly into competitive minutes at a major tournament where intensity is unforgiving.

Lamine Yamal: Barcelona monitor recovery closely

Barcelona’s priority is ensuring Yamal completes a full rehabilitation process before returning to full match intensity. The winger has been central to their long-term plans, and club officials are said to be wary of any setback that could arise from an early return on the international stage. His explosive rise has made him one of Spain’s most important attacking outlets, heightening the stakes around his recovery timeline.

Mikel Merino: measured optimism in midfield return

Mikel Merino is also part of Spain’s fitness assessment group, with the coaching staff confident he is progressing well. His presence would offer Spain physical balance and control in midfield, but like Yamal, his readiness for the opening fixture remains under review as the technical team prioritises squad longevity over early risk.

Nico Williams: pace threat under observation

Nico Williams remains another key figure in Spain’s attacking structure, with his recovery being tracked alongside his teammates. His direct style and pace give Spain a different dimension in wide areas, yet the coaching staff are expected to manage his minutes carefully if he is cleared in time for the opener.

Spain’s cautious approach reflects a broader concern shared by Barcelona, who are determined not to see Yamal’s injury situation aggravated at the most important stage of his young career.