The roadmap that Barcelona and Spain have agreed for Lamine Yamal’s recovery – report | OneFootball

The hamstring injury sustained by Lamine Yamal last week came as a bitter blow for FC Barcelona, with the young superstar getting ruled out for the rest of the season.

In the official statement, the Blaugrana confirmed that they expected the 18-year-old winger to be back in time to represent Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, the club naturally have concerns about the academy graduate being rushed back into action from injury ahead of the summer’s tournament.

As a result, the club officials held a meeting with RFEF executives earlier this week to discuss the situation.

Aligned interest

Now, according to SPORT, Barcelona are more at ease following the meeting held on Monday to coordinate the recovery plan for Lamine ahead of his involvement with the Spanish national football team.

The meeting included Raul Martinez, head of the club’s physiotherapy department, and Fernando Galan, who acts as the link between Barcelona and the RFEF.

The club’s priority is ensuring that the 18-year-old fully recovers without rushing, avoiding complications that could affect his long-term development.

At the same time, Yamal hopes to play in his first World Cup with a Spain side considered among the favourites, while head coach Luis de la Fuente is keen not to lose a key player.

Lamine Yamal’s recovery being managed carefully. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s objective has been to align all three interests, especially given that the recovery period, estimated at six to eight weeks, carries a high risk of relapse.

The Catalans have shown willingness from the outset, making it clear that the player will be available for the national team. The aim is for Spain to have access to the player, but with a carefully managed and conservative return.

Return plan

Yamal will not play for Barcelona again this season. He will be included in De la Fuente’s squad list on 30 May, after approximately five and a half weeks out, and will continue his recovery work.

However, he will not take part in Spain’s preparatory friendlies against Iraq on 4 June and Peru on 8 June. From that point, his return will be gradual and guided by medical assessments and the player’s own sensations.

Spain will open their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde on 15 June. Yamal could feature for limited minutes if his recovery progresses well, with a similar approach expected for the second group match against Saudi Arabia on 21 June.

A potential starting role could come in the third group match against Uruguay on 27 June, approximately nine and a half weeks after the injury, although he may not yet be ready to complete the full match.

Should everything proceed as per plan, Yamal is expected to be fully recovered and physically ready for full matches by the knockout stages.