Lamine Yamal is expected to recover in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite suffering a hamstring injury that will rule him out for the remainder of FC Barcelona’s domestic campaign. 

The 18-year-old Spanish forward picked up the injury during Barcelona’s 1-0 victory over RC Celta de Vigo on Wednesday night.

Yamal had given Barcelona the lead from the penalty spot in the 40th minute before immediately signaling to the bench in discomfort. 

The teenager then fell to the ground clutching his left hamstring and required assistance from medical staff before leaving the pitch and heading straight down the tunnel.

Barcelona confirmed on Thursday that the winger sustained a hamstring injury in his left leg and will undergo a conservative rehabilitation programme.

The club added that Yamal is expected to regain fitness in time to represent the Spain national football team at the upcoming World Cup.

The injury is a significant setback for Barcelona as the club enters the closing stages of the season. 

The reigning La Liga champions currently sit nine points clear at the top of the table and still have six league matches remaining, including a crucial clash against rivals Real Madrid CF on 10 May.

Yamal has been one of Barcelona’s standout performers this season, scoring 24 goals in all competitions and continuing his rapid rise as one of Europe’s brightest young talents. 

His absence will leave a major gap in the team’s attack as they aim to secure another league title.

Spain will begin their World Cup campaign in Group H on 15 June against Cape Verde national football team before facing Saudi Arabia national football team on 21 June and Uruguay national football team on 27 June.

Spanish fans will now hope Yamal can complete his recovery in time to play a key role on football’s biggest stage.