Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has been ruled out for up to four weeks after sustaining an ankle injury during the weekend’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Leganes. This setback comes as a significant blow for the Catalan giants ahead of their top-of-the-table LaLiga clash against Atletico Madrid this weekend.
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Out of Action Following Leganes Defeat as Recurring Ankle Concerns for Yamal
The 17-year-old, who has been instrumental for both club and country, was forced off the field with 15 minutes remaining during Saturday’s loss. Barcelona confirmed on Monday that the young Spaniard has suffered a grade one injury to the anterior tibiofibular ligament in his right ankle.
Yamal’s latest injury raises concerns over the recurring issues with his right ankle. The same ankle was injured during Barcelona’s Champions League win over Red Star Belgrade on November 6. That previous trauma caused him to miss three club matches and two fixtures for Spain. Upon his return against Las Palmas on November 30, Yamal appeared to have fully recovered. However, the new setback will now see him sidelined again.
The teenager’s absence arrives at a crucial time for Barcelona, who are currently locked in a tight race for the top spot in LaLiga. Atletico Madrid and Barcelona both sit level on 38 points, though Atletico have a game in hand. Real Madrid, one point adrift, also possess an extra fixture, intensifying the pressure on Barcelona to secure maximum points in the coming matches.
Key Fixtures Yamal Will Miss
Barcelona will face Atletico Madrid at the Olympic Stadium this weekend without one of their most promising attacking talents. This fixture is pivotal in the title race, with both teams seeking to gain a critical advantage before LaLiga pauses for its winter break.
Following the Atletico encounter, Barcelona’s next competitive match will come in the Copa del Rey against fourth-tier side Barbastro on January 4. While the club will likely be able to cope without Yamal in this fixture, his absence could also stretch into the Spanish Supercopa.
Barcelona will travel to Saudi Arabia on January 8, where they are set to face Athletic Club in the Supercopa semifinal. Given the timeline of Yamal’s recovery, it remains unlikely that he will feature in the Middle East tournament.
LaLiga action will then resume for Barcelona on the weekend starting January 18, when they are scheduled to visit Getafe. The exact date for the fixture is yet to be confirmed, but this marks a potential return window for the young winger.
Yamal’s Influence Under Hansi Flick
Since Hansi Flick took over as Barcelona’s manager at the start of the season, Lamine Yamal has emerged as a key player in the team’s attacking setup. Combining seamlessly with Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, the teenager has showcased maturity beyond his years.
In 21 appearances across all competitions, Yamal has contributed six goals and 11 assists, highlighting his creative prowess. His performances have drawn praise from fans and pundits alike, with many considering him a future star for both Barcelona and Spain.
Barcelona’s official statement regarding the injury read: “Tests carried out this morning have shown a grade one injury to the anterior tibiofibular ligament. The player is expected to be out for three to four weeks.”
Yamal’s absence will undoubtedly be felt, particularly in such a critical stage of the season. Flick will now need to rely heavily on the depth of his squad to fill the void left by the winger’s injury.
Barcelona’s Tight LaLiga Race
Barcelona’s defeat to Leganes has added further tension to an already closely contested LaLiga title race. Atletico Madrid, with a game in hand, have the opportunity to take sole possession of the top spot should they secure a win in the upcoming clash.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid, sitting just a point behind, will be eager to capitalize on any further slip-ups. The absence of Yamal, one of Barcelona’s most creative outlets, places additional pressure on veterans like Lewandowski and Raphinha to step up and deliver.
A Long Road Ahead
Barcelona will need to navigate the coming weeks carefully without Yamal. While the Copa del Rey fixture against Barbastro offers some respite, challenges will escalate during the Spanish Supercopa and their return to LaLiga action.
Yamal’s injury serves as a reminder of the physical toll the season takes on young players. The 17-year-old, who played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, will now focus on recovering fully before rejoining the squad in January.
For Barcelona, the upcoming clash against Atletico Madrid will be a major test of their resolve. Yamal’s absence adds an extra layer of difficulty, but Flick’s men will need to rally together as they aim to maintain their title charge.
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FAQs
What injury did Lamine Yamal sustain?
Lamine Yamal suffered a grade one injury to the anterior tibiofibular ligament in his right ankle during Barcelona’s match against Leganes.
How long is Lamine Yamal expected to be out?
Yamal is expected to miss three to four weeks of action due to the ankle injury.
Which key matches will Yamal miss?
He will miss Barcelona’s top-of-the-table clash against Atletico Madrid, their Copa del Rey tie against Barbastro, and possibly the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Athletic Club.
How did the injury occur?
Yamal sustained the trauma in the 1-0 defeat to Leganes, and it aggravated the same ankle he injured in November against Red Star Belgrade.
How has Yamal performed this season?
The 17-year-old has been a standout for Barcelona, scoring six goals and providing 11 assists in 21 appearances across all competitions.
