Barcelona sweating on fresh Lamine Yamal ankle injury after wonderkid was eventually forced off…

Barcelona sweating on fresh Lamine Yamal ankle injury after wonderkid was eventually forced off in dire defeat to Leganes

 

 

 

 

Barcelona’s 1-0 defeat to Leganés in La Liga on Sunday was further marred by a fresh ankle injury to teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. The 16-year-old wonderkid, who has been a beacon of hope for Barça in an otherwise inconsistent season, had to be substituted after struggling with an apparent ankle issue.

 

The injury occurred midway through the second half when Yamal appeared to twist his ankle during a challenge. Despite initially attempting to continue, the discomfort proved too much, and he was eventually replaced by Ferran Torres. His exit marked a significant blow for Xavi’s side, who were already trailing in a dire performance at Estadio Municipal de Butarque.

 

Leganés, fighting relegation, capitalized on Barcelona’s lackluster display with a 54th-minute goal from Youssef En-Nesyri. Barcelona failed to find their rhythm, struggling to create clear chances and exhibiting defensive frailties that Leganés exploited. The Catalan side’s attack looked disjointed, even with Robert Lewandowski and João Félix in the lineup, highlighting their growing reliance on Yamal’s creativity.

 

Yamal’s injury comes at a critical juncture for Barcelona, who are dealing with an extensive list of absentees, including key players Pedri and Frenkie de Jong. The youngster has been a standout performer this season, earning plaudits for his composure, vision, and ability to influence games despite his tender age. Xavi’s squad depth is set to be tested further, with tough fixtures ahead, including Champions League commitments.

 

Barcelona fans will anxiously await updates on Yamal’s condition, as he undergoes medical assessments to determine the extent of the injury. Initial fears suggest it could sideline him for weeks, a scenario Barça can ill afford given their stuttering form.

 

This defeat sees Barcelona fall further behind leaders Real Madrid, raising questions about their title aspirations. Xavi lamented his team’s performance, acknowledging their lack of intensity and cohesion while emphasizing the need for improvement. The coach also expressed concern over Yamal’s injury, describing him as “vital to the team’s dynamics.”

 

For a club already grappling with injuries and inconsistent performances, Lamine Yamal’s potential absence could deepen their struggles. His recovery will now be a top priority for Barcelona as they aim to regroup and refocus in the challenging weeks ahead.