Spain sweating over Lamine Yamal fitness ahead of 2026 World Cup opener

Lamine Yamal is expected to miss the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Spain continue to monitor the teenager’s recovery from a hamstring injury.

According to reports, the 18-year-old forward is unlikely to be fit in time for Spain’s opening group-stage clash against Cape Verde national football team on June 15.

The Barcelona star is also considered doubtful for Spain’s second group match against Saudi Arabia national football team on June 21.

Spain’s final group fixture is scheduled against Uruguay national football team on June 26.

Injury suffered during La Liga campaign

Lamine Yamal suffered the injury during FC Barcelona’s La Liga victory over RC Celta de Vigo last month.

The injury ruled him out for the remainder of Barcelona’s domestic season, with the club opting for a conservative recovery programme in order to avoid aggravating the problem.

The Royal Spanish Football Federation has reportedly maintained close communication with Barcelona throughout the rehabilitation process, with medical staff regularly checking on the player’s condition.

Barcelona officials also met with Spain representatives last week to coordinate Yamal’s treatment and recovery plan ahead of the World Cup.

Outstanding season despite injury struggles

Despite his recent injury setback, Yamal enjoyed another exceptional campaign with Barcelona.

The teenager made 45 appearances across all competitions, scoring 24 goals and contributing 16 assists as the Catalan giants successfully defended their league title.

Although he struggled with pubalgia earlier in the season, the young winger returned strongly and established himself as one of the most influential players in the squad.

At international level, Lamine Yamal has already become one of Spain’s key stars despite his young age.

Since making his debut at just 16 years old, he has earned 25 caps and scored six international goals.

He also played a major role in Spain’s triumph at UEFA Euro 2024 before finishing runner-up in the 2025 Ballon d’Or voting.

Barcelona and Spain tensions continue

Yamal’s injury situation has once again highlighted tensions between FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team regarding the management of the player’s workload.

Earlier this season, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick criticised Spain’s handling of the youngster after the forward reportedly played through painkillers during an international break before returning injured.

Flick later stated that he had a responsibility to “protect” the teenager from excessive physical strain.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente defended his medical staff and insisted the national team never takes unnecessary risks with players.

However, the debate intensified again later in the year when Barcelona announced Yamal’s absence shortly after Spain included him in an international squad despite concerns over recurring groin issues.

Spain waiting anxiously for recovery progress

Spain are scheduled to play pre-World Cup friendlies against Iraq national football team and Peru national football team before the tournament begins.

The national team’s final 26-man World Cup squad is expected to be announced on May 25.

While there remains hope that Lamine Yamal could recover in time for the later stages of the group phase, his likely absence from the opening match represents a significant setback for Spain’s World Cup ambitions.