Just in: Barcelona winger ‘OK’ to play against Atletico Madrid after training absence | OneFootball

Barcelona were handed a major concern on Monday when key winger Lamine Yamal did not train with the rest of the squad ahead of their Copa del Rey clash against Atletico Madrid.

Having suffered a bruised and bloodied foot during last weekend’s La Liga clash against Las Palmas, the 17-year-old gem did not participate in training, raising questions about his availability for tonight’s semi-final first leg at Montjuic.

Yamal ‘OK’ to play

However, in a positive update, journalist Helena Condis reports that Lamine Yamal is ‘OK’ to play for Barcelona against Atletico Madrid tonight.

Manager Hansi Flick was asked about the youngster’s condition during his press conference on Monday and he had expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of the La Masia gem being fit and available for the game.

Ready to go. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Now, it appears that the Spanish international is indeed ready to take the pitch at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys against Diego Simeone’s men later tonight.

Lamine’s availability is a big boost for Barcelona considering how important he has been for Flick’s team this season.

So far in 2024/25, the young winger has racked up 11 goals and 16 assists from 33 appearances in all competitions, emerging as one of the best young talents in the game.

Even though he is going through a goal drought in La Liga, Lamine was on target for Barcelona in their Copa del Rey quarter-final win over Valencia earlier this month and will be eager to add to his tally when he faces Atleti tonight.

It will be interesting to see whether Flick opts to start the Golden Boy winner or introduces him from the bench.