Barcelona Receive Injury Boost as Lamine Yamal Cleared to Face Girona
BARCELONA – FC Barcelona have received a timely boost ahead of their high-stakes clash against Girona this weekend, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal cleared to return to action following a brief injury layoff.
The 17-year-old winger, who has been recovering under close medical supervision, is expected to feature in a limited capacity when La Liga resumes after the international break, according to Spanish outlet Diario AS.
The news comes as a relief for head coach Hansi Flick, whose squad has been hit hard by injuries in recent weeks. The Catalan giants are currently on a two-game losing streak and will face local rivals Girona without key players such as Gavi, Joan Garcia, and Dani Olmo, all ruled out of contention.
⚕️ Carefully Managed Return for Yamal
Yamal’s return is part of a broader strategy by Barcelona’s medical and coaching staff to accelerate his recovery while managing his workload carefully. While he has been cleared for selection, club sources indicate he will be eased into match play, likely featuring for a brief period against Girona.
“The priority is to have Lamine fully fit for the upcoming El Clásico against Real Madrid on October 26,” a source close to the club told AS.
Barcelona are also eyeing his involvement in the upcoming Champions League fixture against Olympiacos, where Yamal is expected to start, albeit without completing a full 90 minutes.
⚽️ Barcelona’s Attacking Puzzle
With Yamal only partially fit and other attacking options sidelined, Flick will rely heavily on Ferran Torres, Marcus Rashford, and veteran striker Robert Lewandowski to carry the offensive load against a high-flying Girona side.
Lewandowski, in particular, is under pressure to regain form. The Polish international has endured a slow start to the 2025/26 campaign, prompting speculation about his diminishing role in Barcelona’s forward line.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Pedri may be deployed as an advanced playmaker to bolster creativity in midfield—a tactical adjustment driven by the absence of Gavi and Olmo.
🛑 A Crucial Test Before El Clásico
Barcelona’s clash with Girona is shaping up to be more than just a regional derby—it’s a critical test of depth, resilience, and momentum heading into one of the biggest matches of the season.
Girona have impressed with their attacking football this season and sit higher than Barcelona on the La Liga table, making them formidable opponents.
“Girona are not just local rivals—they’re genuine contenders this season,” said Spanish football analyst José Luis Corral. “Barcelona cannot afford another slip-up.”
With just over ten days remaining until their clash with Real Madrid, Barcelona will use the Girona game as both a tactical rehearsal and a chance to regain confidence.
