Barcelona confirm Lamine Yamal issue as he's left out of squad for Real Sociedad clash

Barcelona have announced that star forward Lamine Yamal will not feature in their game against Real Sociedad due to injury. The Spanish teenager has been left out of La Blaugrana's squad to face the Basque club in their LaLiga clash in San Sebastian.

Recently crowned as the world's best U-21 player, Lamine Yamal has firmly established himself as a key player for club and country in 2024. The 17-year-old had started in all of his side's games bar one this season, showing his importance to Hansi Flick's side.

Yamal was surprisingly left out of the squad to face Real Sociedad as Barcelona look to open up a nine-point lead atop the league standings. The club issued an explanation on their X account, revealing that the teenage sensation had suffered an injury during their midweek UEFA Champions League game in Serbia.

"LATEST NEWS | First team player Lamine Yamal sustained a severe right ankle contusion in last Wednesday's game against Red Star Belgrade. Over the past few days, he has undergone treatment, but the discomfort has yet to subside. His recovery will determine his availability," the statement read.

Lamine Yamal has contributed five goals and seven assists in 12 league games for Flick's side this season, forming a deadly partnership with Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski up front. The teenager also has one goal and an assist in four games in the UEFA Champions League this season.

In the enforced absence of Yamal through injury, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has started Raphinha and Lewandowski up front, while opting for a four-man midfield. The youngster was called up to the Spain squad for this month's internationals and may choose to pull out due to his injury.

Lamine Yamal influences Barcelona interest in Premier League star - Reports

Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has had an influence on his side's choice of a right-back target, as per Football 365. The LaLiga leaders are keen to sign a new right-back to provide competition and cover for Jules Kounde.

La Blaugrana were considering a move for Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose deal is set to run out at the end of the season. However, the club will no longer pursue a deal for the 26-year-old due to Yamal's preference.

Yamal has built a solid understanding with Kounde on the right flank, with the Frenchman relieving the youngster of major defensive duty. The teenager wants the dynamic to continue to allow him to produce quality attacking numbers.