Lamine Yamal has resumed training with Spain’s national team in the United States as he prepares for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. This comes just under two months after he faced a hamstring injury that almost jeopardized his participation in the tournament. Yamal, only 18 years old and playing for FC Barcelona, suffered a left hamstring tear during a penalty kick in April, with initial projections suggesting a recovery time of six to eight weeks. The World Cup begins with Spain’s opener against Cape Verde on June 15.
What is the plan for Yamal’s comeback? As of now, he is undergoing integrated training sessions with the national squad, although he remains on the sidelines, training separately as he builds back his fitness. Barcelona has crafted a careful strategy for his involvement in the World Cup. Their plan includes a limited playing time of about 15 to 20 minutes against Cape Verde on June 15, contingent on his physical response. If he copes well, the expectation would be to increase his playing time to 45-60 minutes in the second match against Saudi Arabia. If all goes as planned, a starting position against Uruguay on June 26 could be a possibility.
Spain's head coach has acknowledged Yamal’s agility in achieving his training goals faster than anticipated, though he stresses that match fitness will play a crucial role in any decisions regarding his participation.
How do Barcelona and Spain align on his recovery? The club has reportedly developed the framework that the national team is using for Yamal’s recovery and minute management. This implies a solid partnership between the two camps, ensuring that his health is prioritized. The recovery timeline aligns with the schedule for the Cape Verde match, making it a crucial moment in his return.
Being only 18 years old, Yamal has many years of professional football ahead, making the focus on preventing re-injury from this point forward imperative. Hence, the ongoing collaboration between Barcelona and Spain aims to manage his recovery effectively, ensuring a sustainable return to elite competition.