Barcelona handed fresh update on Lamine Yamal after ankle injury - Reports

Barcelona have been handed a fresh update on young superstar Lamine Yamal, who suffered an ankle injury and has been out of contention. The 17-year-old winger picked up a knock in the ankle in early November, which saw him miss three games, as he spent the month on the sidelines.

He returned to the pitch and played four La Liga games, before picking up another ankle injury in mid-December. He has been out of contention ever since, missing out on their 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid at the Lluis Companys on December 21.

Barcelona, like other clubs in La Liga, are currently enjoying their mid-season break, amidst the festive period. This has given Lamine Yamal time to work towards recovery, and the club have been handed a positive update in response. According to Spanish journalist Javi Miguel (via BarcaTimes on X), the 17-year-old's ankle is "now fully stable."

Yamal reportedly went for tests at the Cuitat Esportiva, where the doctors determined that the winger was good to go. The club are expecting to have him resume training in due course, and it is expected that he will partake in their Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Bilbao on January 8.

Despite his injuries, Lamine Yamal has been a consistent source of creativity for Barcelona this season. He has scored six goals and provided 12 assists in just 21 games across all competitions.

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Barcelona manager Hansi Flick shares delight in style of play, despite loss to Atletico Madrid

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has shared his delight in how the team played in their 2-1 loss to Atletico Madrid in front of their fans. Barca scored first, thanks to an effort from Pedri in the 30th minute. However, on the hour, Rodrigo de Paul equalized for the visitors (60').

It seemed as though the game would go in the way of the hosts, but against the run of play, Alexander Sorloth put Atleti ahead in injury time (90+6'). Speaking about the loss afterwards, Hansi Flick admitted that his team's style of play had pleased him. He said (via GSFN):

“We played exactly as I want to see. That’s the style I want here at Barça. I’m sad for the result as losing 9 points at home is not normal… but performance, it was great. That’s how I want the team to play.”

Barcelona have won just once in their last seven league games, which will cause concern in Catalunya. This has seen them drop from the top of the table into third place behind Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.