Barcelona are optimistic that star winger Lamine Yamal will return to action in time for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Club in Saudi Arabia on 8 January. The 17-year-old has been sidelined since earlier this month with an ankle injury, but is expected to resume training next week.
According to reports, Yamal’s recovery is progressing well, and the club are confident that he will be fit to play some part in the Super Cup last-four tie. The Spanish international’s return would be a significant boost for Barcelona, who are seeking to win their first silverware of the season.
Yamal’s injury had initially ruled him out for several weeks, but the player has been undergoing intensive treatment, including platelet-rich plasma therapy, in the United Arab Emirates. Barcelona’s medical staff are now hopeful that he will be able to return to the pitch sooner than expected.
Barcelona will face Barbastro in a Copa del Rey round of 32 clash on 4 January, but Yamal is unlikely to be risked in that fixture. Instead, manager Hansi Flick will likely field a second-string side, while the first team prepares for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final. A win against Athletic Club would set up a final showdown with either Real Madrid or Mallorca on 12 January.
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