As FC Barcelona prepares for its European showdown with Newcastle United, a key star’s ongoing recovery raises doubts about his availability.
The Blaugrana, who reached the semi-finals last season, are determined to make a deep run this term.
However, their preparations have hit a snag, as a pivotal forward remains sidelined and is unlikely to feature against the Magpies, posing a challenge for coach Hansi Flick’s squad.
The player in question is Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old prodigy whose absence is a significant blow for Barcelona.
According to Javi Miguel of AS, Yamal has not rejoined group training, effectively ruling him out of the upcoming clash.
The young star, a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or, returned from international duty with Spain earlier this month nursing pubic discomfort.
The issue, initially a minor niggle, worsened after he played over 150 minutes across two matches for La Roja, preventing him from training with the team since.
Yamal’s absence was already felt in Barcelona’s recent 6-0 thrashing of Valencia, where he was unable to participate.
While reports had indicated slight improvements in his condition, his lack of group training on September 16, 2025, confirms that a return for the Newcastle match is highly improbable.
His unavailability forces Flick to adjust his attacking strategy, relying on other forwards to fill the void left by the teenage sensation, whose flair and creativity have been integral to the team’s early-season form.
As Barcelona travels to England, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum without one of their brightest talents.
The club remains hopeful that Yamal’s recovery progresses swiftly, with upcoming La Liga matches and the Champions League campaign in mind.
For now, Flick’s side must navigate this high-stakes European encounter without their key forward, testing the squad’s depth as they aim to secure a crucial win against a formidable Newcastle side.
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