ATLANTA — Spain forward Lamine Yamal has admitted he is not yet fully fit and is unlikely to start Sunday’s World Cup match against Saudi Arabia as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.
The 18-year-old arrived at the tournament carrying a left hamstring problem and was limited to a substitute appearance in Spain’s disappointing 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in the opening round.
“I’m fine, I feel good, but it’s still too soon,” Yamal told Spanish broadcaster RTVE. “It’s unnecessary to take risks. I’m going through an adaptation process, and it’s not the time to play a full match yet. But I can play as many minutes as the coach wants.”
Yamal entered the match against Cape Verde in the 71st minute but was unable to inspire Spain to break down the World Cup debutants, who earned one of the tournament’s biggest surprises with a goalless draw.
The Barcelona star suggested that teammate Nico Williams, who also arrived carrying an injury, is further ahead in his recovery.
“Physically he’s even better than me,” Yamal said. “We’re not in a rush. We have a great team with top-level players and we have to go step by step.”
Spain faces Saudi Arabia on Sunday before concluding Group H against Uruguay in what could prove to be a decisive match for qualification to the knockout stage.
Yamal entered the tournament as one of its biggest attractions after helping Spain win the European Championship in 2024 and playing a key role in Barcelona’s LaLiga title success this season.
His growing popularity has been evident in the United States, where his image features prominently around Atlanta ahead of Sunday’s match.
“I’m taking it naturally, it’s something I’m used to,” Yamal said. “I know what I represent both outside Spain and in Spain. I try to always give my best because that’s what the fans want.”
Spain and Saudi Arabia both enter the match with one point after opening draws against Cape Verde and Uruguay respectively.
Source: Saudi Gazette