Barcelona will be without star forward Lamine Yamal for Saturday’s crucial LaLiga clash against Atlético Madrid after the 17-year-old was sidelined for up to four weeks with an ankle ligament injury.
The setback occurred during Barça’s shocking defeat to Leganés, where Yamal sustained the injury in the first half but soldiered on until the 75th minute before being replaced by Gavi.
This is the same ankle Yamal injured earlier in November during Barcelona’s Champions League win over Red Star Belgrade.
That previous injury forced him to miss three club fixtures and two international games with Spain. He made his return to action against Las Palmas on November 30 but now faces another extended spell on the sidelines.
“Tests carried out on Monday have revealed Yamal has an injury to a ligament in the ankle,” Barcelona confirmed in an official statement.
“He is expected to be out for three to four weeks.”
Key Matches Yamal Will Miss
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The young winger will miss Saturday’s highly anticipated top-of-the-table showdown with Atlético Madrid at the Olympic Stadium, where both teams sit level on points in LaLiga, although Atlético have a game in hand.
Following this fixture, LaLiga will pause for the winter break. Barça’s next competitive match will be in the Copa del Rey against fourth-tier Barbastro on January 4, followed by the Spanish Supercopa semifinal against Athletic Club in Saudi Arabia on January 8.
Yamal is unlikely to be fit for either game.
Barcelona’s LaLiga campaign resumes with an away fixture against Getafe on the weekend of January 18, though the exact date has yet to be confirmed.
Yamal’s Impact This Season
Despite his young age, Lamine Yamal has been a revelation under manager Hansi Flick this season. In 21 appearances across all competitions, he has contributed six goals and 11 assists, forming a potent attacking trio alongside Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski.
The teenager’s standout performances have also bolstered his international profile, playing a key role in Spain’s European Championship victory last summer.
His absence will be a significant blow to Barcelona as they navigate a challenging period in both domestic and international competitions.
