Lamine Yamal Doubtful for Champions League Clash at Newcastle
Barcelona's 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal faces a groin injury that could sideline him from the Champions League tie at Newcastle, prompting coach Hansi Flick to criticise Spain's handling of young players.
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal is set to miss Sunday's La Liga match against Valencia and is doubtful for next week's Champions League tie at Newcastle due to a groin injury.
The 18-year-old, who featured in Spain’s recent wins over Bulgaria and Turkey, skipped Barcelona's Saturday training after reporting pubic discomfort. Manager Hansi Flick expressed frustration over the national team’s decision to field Yamal despite his pain.
“He played 79 and 73 minutes, then didn’t train between games because of discomfort. That’s not looking after our players,” Flick said. “Spain has world-class talent, so I expected better protection for our young stars.”
Barcelona’s press office confirmed Yamal’s “pubic bone discomfort” and said he is doubtful for the Newcastle visit.
Flick and de la Fuente communication issues
Flick revealed he reached out to Spain coach Luis de la Fuente by text but noted language barriers and limited dialogue. “My Spanish and his English aren’t strong, so our communication could improve,” he said.
No date for Nou Camp reopening
With Camp Nou still under renovation, Barcelona will host Valencia at the 6,000-seat Johan Cruyff Stadium. There is no confirmed reopening date for the main venue, and Flick insists it will not be used as an excuse.
Flick warned that overplaying young talents without proper medical care can risk their development and club commitments.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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