Barcelona sensation will be ready to start Spain’s World Cup opener after major fitness breakthrough | OneFootball

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal is expected to be available for Spain’s opening World Cup match against Cape Verde on June 15, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty surrounding his fitness, reports SER.

The teenager’s participation in the early stages of the tournament had been in doubt after he suffered a hamstring injury towards the end of the club season. 

However, with less than two weeks remaining before the World Cup begins, confidence is growing within the Spanish camp that one of their most important players will be ready from the very start.

Reports now suggest that Luis de la Fuente is already planning his opening lineup with Yamal included.

Yamal set to start Spain’s World Cup opener

The injury concern dates back to Barcelona’s clash against Celta Vigo in April when Yamal experienced discomfort.

Yamal’s recovery has been very positive. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The hamstring issue prevented him from completing the season with Barcelona and immediately raised concerns about his availability for the World Cup.

Initially, there were fears that the winger could miss Spain’s opening fixtures. 

However, his recovery has progressed positively and the latest reports indicate that he is expected to be fit enough to feature against Cape Verde.

De la Fuente’s assurance

Meanwhile, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente recently offered a highly encouraging update on the Barcelona star’s condition. Speaking about Yamal’s recovery, the coach said,

“We know he’ll be in perfect condition and I’d even go so far as to say he’ll be ready for the first match, but we’ll keep monitoring his progress.”

Lamine Yamal will start the World Cup. (Photo by Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for Laureus)

The latest information suggests that those comments were not simply optimistic words.

Rather, De la Fuente is already considering Yamal part of his strongest lineup for the tournament opener.

In fact, according to the report, Spain’s front three against Cape Verde is expected to feature Yamal alongside Mikel Oyarzabal and Nico Williams.

Meanwhile, for Barcelona, the development is equally encouraging, as the club has closely monitored Yamal’s recovery process and the latest reports suggest that the injury has not affected his chances of playing a significant role at the World Cup.