FC Barcelona is racing against the clock to recover Lamine Yamal ahead of El Clásico against Real Madrid, set for October 26 at the Santiago Bernabéu. The 18-year-old winger, who recently suffered a setback in his adductor injury during the Champions League clash with PSG, continues to train individually under the supervision of the Barça medical staff.

The goal is simple but ambitious: get him fully fit and match-ready for the club’s most important game of the season.

What Is Barcelona’s Recovery Plan for Lamine Yamal?

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona has designed a gradual, controlled recovery program to help Yamal regain form without risking a relapse. The plan involves five consecutive days of tailored physical training at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, with the workload increasing progressively based on his response.

If all goes according to plan, the young star could see limited minutes (30–45) against Girona in LaLiga Matchday 9, before starting in the Champions League match versus Olympiacos. The roadmap is clear: have him at 100% fitness for the Clásico.

“We want Lamine ready for the Clásico, but we won’t take risks. His process will be step by step, always listening to his body,” a source from the coaching staff reportedly said.

Hansi Flick Sees Yamal as Indispensable

Despite his young age, Lamine Yamal has become a key piece in Hansi Flick’s tactical system. The German manager views him as essential to Barça’s attacking structure and has taken a cautious approach to his comeback, knowing a second setback could be disastrous.

Those close to the team highlight Yamal’s professionalism and maturity beyond his years. He has followed every medical instruction closely and even resisted the temptation to return earlier than advised.

“Lamine has an incredible mindset. At his age, many would rush back, but he understands the importance of patience to come back stronger,” said a source inside the dressing room.

Tension Between Barcelona and Spain

The player’s situation has also sparked friction between Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Luis de la Fuente, coach of La Roja, recently responded to Flick’s remarks criticizing how Spain managed the youngster’s workload during the last international break.

“I was surprised by the lack of empathy from one coach to another,” De la Fuente stated, defending his handling of the player.

Within Barcelona, however, the stance remains firm: protecting Yamal comes first. With El Clásico fast approaching, both the club and the player share one goal — to be fully fit and decisive against Real Madrid, ready to shine again on Spanish football’s grandest stage.