Barcelona worry over Spain's handling of Lamine Yamal

FC Barcelona are growing increasingly uneasy about Spain national team’s handling of Lamine Yamal’s recovery ahead of the World Cup opening match. The club fears the teenager could be rushed back before a fully controlled recovery process is completed. Barcelona stress that caution should remain the priority. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said Yamal is progressing well and could be available sooner than initially expected. De la Fuente also noted that Mikel Merino and Nico Williams are making good progress in their recoveries. He added that the decision to play them will consider the broader tournament focus, not just the risk of an early appearance. Yamal suffered a left‑leg biceps femoris injury during FC Barcelona’s 22 April victory over Celta Vigo and has not played since. Initial medical assessments set his recovery at around eight weeks. By the time Spain face Cape Verde on 15 June, only 54 days will have elapsed, placing him at the earliest projected recovery window. Yamal did not travel with Spain for the friendly against Peru, remaining at the training base to continue a personalised recovery programme. Barcelona’s concerns stem from the tight timeline and the possibility of an accelerated return. The club will monitor the situation as the World Cup approaches.