Lamine Yamal racing against time for World Cup 2026

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has started his recovery programme as he battles to be fully fit in time for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to Cadena SER, he suffered a hamstring injury during Barça’s win over Celta Vigo and is expected to be sidelined for between six and eight weeks. The Spain international has already begun gym work and light running on the pitch as he accelerates his return.

Yamal is following a tailored plan designed by Barcelona’s medical staff to ensure he reaches peak condition for Spain. La Roja open their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde on 15 June, a date that leaves little margin for setbacks in his rehab.

His presence and sharpness are considered crucial for Luis de la Fuente’s starting eleven, given Yamal’s exceptional talent and ability to change games. Still only 18, he was one of the key figures in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph and is widely seen as one of the potential stars of this World Cup.