Lamine Yamal is no

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By: Manu Tournoux

Arriving physically diminished at the 2026 World Cup, Lamine Yamal admitted that he could not yet help Spain as he would like.

Like all 48 nations involved in the 2026 World Cup, Spain has already played its first match of the competition. Unable to do better than a draw against Cape Verde (1-1), La Roja could not really count on a replacement Lamine Yamal whose entry into play did not change the scenario. Physically diminished, the FC Barcelona player took stock.

Injured in his left thigh since the end of April, the Spanish international ended his club season prematurely, putting all the chances on his side to be present at the World Cup with Spain. Last Monday against Cape Verde, it was no surprise that he did not start, his coach preferring to take it easy. It should be the same against Saudi Arabia.

Two days before this second group match for him and his family, Lamine Yamal gave his news in an interview with RTVE. “I’m fine, I feel good. » But to start against the Saudis, caution remains essential. “It’s too early. It’s not necessary. I have an adaptation period, this is not the time to play a full match. »

Lamine Yamal hopes not to get injured again

However, the Spanish prodigy is ready to play a few minutes. “I can play as long as the coach gives me. » Lamine Yamal finally returned to what the doctors told him before the competition. “The World Cup was a constant concern. Luckily, the doctors told me I was ready and in great shape. So here I am, happy. I hope I never get hurt again. »

Currently third in its group in which none of the four teams have won or lost, Spain hopes to achieve a first success on Sunday against Saudi Arabia. It will be important for her before facing Uruguay on June 27. A match that Lamine Yamal could play as a starter.