FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to injury, though he is expected to recover in time for the World Cup.
The 18-year-old picked up a hamstring issue in his left leg during Barcelona’s 1–0 win over Celta Vigo on Wednesday.
Yamal had put his side ahead from the penalty spot in the 40th minute, but shortly after scoring, he signalled to the bench before going down while holding his left hamstring.
The club confirmed the setback in an official statement on Thursday.
“The tests carried out have confirmed that first-team player Lamine Yamal has a hamstring injury in his left leg (biceps femoris muscle),” a statement began.
“The player will follow a conservative treatment plan. Lamine Yamal will miss the remainder of the season, and he is expected to be available for the World Cup.”
Barcelona currently lead the La Liga table, sitting nine points ahead of rivals Real Madrid, whom they are set to face on May 10 as part of their remaining fixtures.
Meanwhile, Spain national football team will begin their World Cup campaign in Group H against Cape Verde national football team on June 15, before taking on Saudi Arabia national football team on June 21 and Uruguay national football team on June 27.