Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Yamal Back on Grass in Video as Spain and Barcelona Keep Cautious World Cup Plan

A visible step in his rehab could prompt Spain to manage his minutes to reduce reinjury risk and prioritise knockout availability.

Spain forward Lamine Yamal will return from a hamstring injury at the 2026 World Cup this summer
Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde carries the hopes of the two-time winners
Lamine Yamal faces a race against time to be fit for the start of the World Cup

Overview

  • Lamine Yamal posted a video on May 27 showing him back on the grass and working with the ball at Barcelona’s training complex.
  • Barcelona medical staff say they are satisfied with his rehabilitation and Spain has included the 18-year-old in its World Cup 2026 squad.
  • Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has said he expects Yamal to be ready for the tournament opener but Spanish media report he may not play until the third group match against Uruguay.
  • Barcelona and Spain have pursued a conservative, non-surgical rehab plan that uses staged on-field work and minute limits to lower the high risk of hamstring relapse.
  • Spain open Group H on June 15 against Cape Verde and wider squad fitness issues for players such as Rodri, Nico Williams and Mikel Merino will influence how quickly staff take risks with Yamal’s minutes.