FC Barcelona have been delt a huge blow as teenage winger Lamine Yamal has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury.
The 18-year-old Spanish sensation is expected to be fit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Barcelona confirmed via their official X account on April 23. They also mentioned that he is expected to be available for national duty during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Yamal got injured during Barcelona's Spanish La Liga match against Celta Vigo on Wednesday, April 23. He had scored a penalty in the 40th minute but immediately went to the ground and was forced out just nine minutes later. The goal turned out to be enough as Barca held out for a 1-0 win at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona lead the La Liga table after 32 matches with 82 points. They hold a nine-point lead over arch rivals Real Madrid. The talismanic Yamal's injury could cause some wobbles in the remainder six matches for the team from Catalonia.
Spain, who are the defending European Champions, will also be sweating on Yamal's fitness. The La Liga season ends on May 24 and the FIFA World Cup starts on June 11 in North America.
Yamal is already a La Liga champion with Barcelona last season. He has scored 49 goals in 151 matches for the Catalan club. Barcelona have only the Spanish league to deal with as they were dumped out of the UEFA Champions League and the Spanish Cup by Atletico Madrid.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.