Barcelona manager Hansi Flick remains confident that teenage star Lamine Yamal will recover in time for the 2026 World Cup, despite a hamstring injury that ended the winger’s club season early.
Lamine Yamal Will Play in 2026 World Cup, Insists Hansi Flick
Yamal suffered the injury during Barcelona’s 1–0 win against Celta Vigo last Wednesday.
The 18-year-old scored a penalty but immediately signaled for help after falling to the ground. Barcelona later announced he would not play again in the 2025–26 campaign.
The timing threatens Yamal’s highly-anticipated World Cup debut with Spain, the tournament favorite.
Spain opens its campaign against Cape Verde on June 15 – exactly seven weeks and five days after the injury. Reports suggest Yamal needs six to seven weeks to return to full fitness.
Flick revealed the injury may have started earlier, when Yamal drew the foul that led to his penalty.
“He felt something after the foul,” Flick said.
“It was not so much, and he decided to kick the penalty. After that, maybe he felt more.”
The manager noted this is Yamal’s first muscle injury, calling it a learning experience.
“He has to learn about the signals the body gives you,” Flick added.
“It’s not easy because he’s really young. But in the end, it’s experience.”
Despite the setback, Flick remains upbeat about Yamal’s World Cup chances. “What I can feel is that he’s really focused,” Flick said.
“He’s out for us, but I think for the World Cup he will be there. He’ll come back stronger than now.”
SPORTÂ report that national team coach Luis de la Fuente has reassured Yamal directly. The federation guarantees his place on the 26-man roster, with full focus on getting him fit for North America.
Barcelona defeated Getafe 2–0 without Yamal, extending their La Liga lead to 11 points with five games remaining. Yamal may arrive at the World Cup slightly rusty, but his presence this summer looks all but certain.
