Returning Barcelona ace wants to play vs Athletic Club; starting role not ruled out | OneFootball

FC Barcelona welcomed star winger Lamine Yamal back into the squad earlier today as they boarded the flight for Saudi Arabia, where they will be involved in the Spanish Super Cup.

Lamine, 17, missed the last game of 2024 against Atletico Madrid due to an ankle injury. And even though he was back in training last week, Barça did not risk the player for the Copa del Rey clash vs UD Barbastro.

Now, the youngster has received the medical clearance and is expected to be available for the Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Club, although reports suggested that he will only likely feature as a substitute.

Lamine Yamal could start vs Athletic

However, according to a fresh update from journalist Javi Miguel, it is not ruled out that Lamine Yamal will be a part of the Barcelona starting lineup against Athletic Club come Wednesday.

Back from injury and eager to play. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The 17-year-old La Masia wonderkid’s sensations following his return from injury are understood to be ‘excellent’.

Furthermore, the player himself is keen on playing against the Basque outfit. As such, there remains a possibility that the Spanish international will be a part of the starting XI for the Blaugrana at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.

Lamine has been a crucial cog for Barcelona this season, having racked up six goals and 12 assists in 21 matches across all competitions.

Oftentimes, the Catalans have not fared well when their ace winger has been absent. As such, his return to the squad for the Super Cup comes as a huge boost.

Now, it will be up to manager Hansi Flick to decide whether to thrust the teenage prodigy right back into the starting XI on Wednesday or ease him back into action gradually.