'The Tragedy of a Prodigy' Yamal, World Cup Hopes Dim: "Even If Taken, He Could Get Injured Again" — Recurrence Rate 30%, Doctors Warn... Spain's 'Invincible Fleet' in 'Panic'

*This content was translated by AI.

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal (18) is expected to face difficulties participating in the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup.

On the 23rd (local time), Spanish radio station Cadena Ser reported, citing an interview with sports medicine expert Dr. Pedro Luis Ripoll, that "if Yamal's recovery is delayed, his participation in the World Cup could become uncertain."

Yamal suffered a hamstring injury at the moment he scored the winning goal via penalty kick in the match against Celta Vigo on the 23rd. Following the game, Barcelona officially announced that Yamal had sustained a left hamstring injury. The club added, "He will not be able to participate in any remaining matches this season, but is expected to be able to play in the World Cup."

However, Dr. Ripoll stated, "The recurrence rate for injuries in this area reaches 30%, so extreme caution must be exercised when setting the recovery period."

The expected absence period is projected to range from a minimum of four weeks to six weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. Dr. Ripoll explained, "If the injury occurs in the convex part of the muscle (muscle belly), it is relatively mild; however, if it occurs at the junction between the muscle and tendon or in the tendon itself, the injury could be severe."

With the North American World Cup opening just 50 days away, Yamal's chances of being selected for the national team are assessed as low. The media explained, "The reasons include the coach's preference for healthy players with sharp match fitness and the high recurrence rate of injuries that could result in losing a player during the tournament."

Yamal, who has firmly established himself as one of the world's top-class forwards, continues to shine this season. His role at Barcelona is absolutely critical. He has recorded 16 goals and 11 assists in 28 La Liga matches this season, and in the UEFA Champions League (UCL), he has contributed 6 goals and 4 assists in 10 matches. He leads the team in both goals and assists.

In Spain's national team, the 'Invincible Fleet,' Yamal is an irreplaceable asset. He has scored 6 goals in 25 A-international matches, playing a key role in leading Spain to victory at Euro 2024.

If Yamal fails to recover in time for the North American World Cup, it is expected to deal a fatal blow to Spain's national team, which aims for the championship.

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*This content was translated by AI.