Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal ruled out of Valencia match, doubtful for Newcastle clash | OneFootball

Barcelona will be without Lamine Yamal for Sunday’s La Liga clash with Valencia after the teenager was ruled out with a groin problem.

The 18-year-old has been experiencing discomfort in the pubic area and has not been able to train. Barcelona confirmed earlier today that his return will depend on how the issue evolves.

It is a significant setback for Hansi Flick, with Yamal having started all three of Barcelona’s league matches this season, scoring twice and registering two assists. His absence also places doubt over his availability for Thursday’s Champions League trip to Newcastle United.

Spanish media have already suggested that he is “practically ruled out” of the visit to St James’ Park, which would deny Barcelona one of their most dangerous attacking players in a crucial group fixture.

Flick has expressed frustration with the Spanish national team over their handling of the teenager during the recent international break.

Yamal played 79 minutes against Bulgaria and 73 minutes against Turkey, despite reporting for duty with discomfort and being unable to train between matches.

“He went to the national team with some pain,” Flick said. “They gave him painkillers so he could play. They were winning by at least three goals in both games, but he still played almost the whole match. That is not looking after the player. I am very sad about this.”

The Barcelona boss also admitted that communication with Spain coach Luis de la Fuente had been minimal, suggesting that the situation could have been avoided with better coordination.

Yamal’s injury could open the door for summer signing Roony Bardghji, who is yet to feature competitively since his move but has now been registered and could make his La Liga debut.

In more positive news for Barcelona, Marc Bernal is set to return to the squad after over a year out with a serious knee injury. The 18-year-old midfielder ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in August 2024 and has spent 13 months on the sidelines.

Bernal featured at the start of last season before his injury and will now be available again, giving Flick another option in midfield at a time when his attack is weakened.

Barcelona face Valencia in their first home match of the season on Sunday, but all attention will also be on whether Yamal can recover in time to play any part against Newcastle next week.