Barcelona superstar fit and ready for Spain’s World Cup opener vs Cape Verde | OneFootball

Spain appear set to receive a significant boost ahead of their opening FIFA World Cup match against Cape Verde, with Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal now on course to return to action after completing a full training session.

According to journalist Alfredo Martinez, the teenage forward successfully took part in Spain’s entire closed-door session in Chattanooga, increasing confidence that he will be available for selection when the European champions begin their World Cup campaign.

The update comes as welcome news for both Spain and Barcelona, especially after weeks of uncertainty surrounding one of the brightest young talents in world football.

Yamal closes in on competitive return

Yamal has not featured in a competitive match since suffering an injury during Barcelona’s clash against Real Betis in April. 

Lamine Yamal will be ready for the World Cup opener. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The setback forced him to spend time on the sidelines and also ruled him out of Spain’s friendly against Peru as preparations for the World Cup gathered pace.

However, his latest progress suggests the recovery process is moving in the right direction.

The Barcelona winger only recently returned to training with the Spanish national team, but completing a full session represents an important step ahead of Monday’s encounter against Cape Verde.

De la Fuente’s update

Recently, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente offered an encouraging assessment of Yamal’s situation while also stressing that the player’s wellbeing remains the top priority.

“They’ll [Lamine and other injured players] all be available for Cape Verde. Now, that doesn’t mean they’ll play. We’ll see how we all feel.

Yamal completed full training session. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“They come first. And we’ll see in that match whether we need to give them some playing time or not.”

Notably, despite being available, it remains unlikely that the Barcelona attacker will start against Cape Verde. 

Having only recently resumed full training, Spain are expected to take a cautious approach with one of their most valuable players.

Instead, a substitute appearance could be the most realistic scenario if the match situation allows it.