Yamal – Foto: Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com
Barcelona’s attacker Lamine Yamal intensifies training after securing second place in the 2025 Ballon d’Or. The 18-year-old, who lost the award to PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé, focuses on recovering from a groin injury. The upcoming match against PSG, set for October 1 in the second round of the Champions League group stage, emerges as a chance for redemption. Barcelona manages the player’s return cautiously, prioritizing full fitness for the Camp Nou clash.
The injury occurred during Spain’s national team duties in September. Yamal felt discomfort in the pubic area after World Cup qualifier matches. The Catalan club confirmed the muscular issue, sidelining him for recent La Liga games and the Champions League opener against Newcastle.
Coaches and medical staff monitor daily progress. The technical team avoids unnecessary risks.
Positive progress in Yamal’s training
Yamal returned to the pitch this week. He trained with a ball for the first time since the injury, in sessions separate from the main group. The intensity remains low, but the player’s sensations improve daily.
Coach Hansi Flick praised the Spaniard’s dedication. “We’re working day by day with Lamine. His recovery is progressing well,” Flick said after a 3-0 win over Getafe.
Yamal wins the Kopa Trophy, again. #UCL || #ballondor pic.twitter.com/J1MbDRxasd
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 22, 2025
Barcelona plans to include Yamal in the squad for the Real Sociedad match in the next La Liga round. However, his participation depends on a final evaluation. The primary goal remains the PSG clash, where he aims to shine.
Other absences test Barcelona’s defense
The Catalan defense faces multiple setbacks early this season. Íñigo Martínez’s departure to Saudi Arabia at the transfer window’s close caught the coaching staff off guard. The defender left in August, forcing immediate adjustments.
Alejandro Balde suffered a tendon injury in his left leg during training on September 3. The full-back, with a history of muscle issues, now trains with the group. His recovery follows a three-to-four-week timeline. Balde won’t play against Real Oviedo this Thursday and is likely to miss the Real Sociedad match.
Pau Cubarsí left the Newcastle game after a knee knock. The young center-back resumed cautious training and rejoined group sessions. He travels to Oviedo and may be an option off the bench.
These setbacks expose defensive vulnerabilities. Flick tests alternative formations to maintain solidity.
Extra motivation after Paris ceremony
The Ballon d’Or ceremony on September 22 at Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris sparked mixed reactions within Barcelona’s squad. Yamal won the Kopa Trophy for the second consecutive year, recognizing the best under-21 player. However, finishing second overall, behind Dembélé, fueled debates.
The Frenchman clinched the award due to PSG’s victorious season, with titles in all competitions and a standout Champions League campaign. Yamal contributed to Barcelona’s La Liga and Copa del Rey triumphs, plus a European semifinal run.
Sources close to the locker room suggest the outcome boosts Yamal’s determination. He views the PSG match as a chance to prove himself on the pitch.
Tactical preparation for European clash
Barcelona begins specific adjustments for PSG this week. Flick emphasizes quick transitions and wing play, areas where Yamal excels. PSG arrives unbeaten in the Champions League after a first-round win.
- Yamal recorded 12 goals and 9 assists last season;
- Dembélé tallied 35 goals and 16 assists for PSG in 2024/2025;
- Barcelona won 4 of their last 5 games without Yamal, showing squad depth;
- PSG leads the group with 3 points; Barça has 1.
The gradual return of injured players bolsters options. Balde and Cubarsí join defensive drills, while Yamal focuses on mobility.
Flick emphasizes rotation. “Every match demands our best. PSG is a real test,” the German said.
Return timeline for the squad
Barcelona’s medical staff provides weekly updates. Yamal follows an individualized protocol, with gym sessions complementing field training.
Balde hits the three-week mark of treatment. Exams confirm progress without complications. The full-back may debut in October.
Cubarsí, with a minor injury, resumes full routines. His availability for Oviedo depends on final physical response.
These advances ease pressure on backups like Gerard Martín and Héctor Fort.
