Lamine Yamal will be available for a complete 90‑minute effort in Spain’s round‑of‑32 World Cup game on July 24, coach Luis De La Fuente announced on Wednesday at SoFi Stadium. The 18‑year‑old Barcelona winger has recovered from the hamstring tear that sidelined him after April 22, and the Spanish side now expects him to feature against Austria.
How did Yamal’s tournament start?
Yamal entered the tournament as a surprise starter, debuting in a goalless draw with Cape Verde on June 20. He netted his first World Cup goal ten minutes into his first start versus Saudi Arabia on June 24, then logged 76 minutes in a 2‑0 win over Uruguay on June 28. Across three group games he amassed 141 minutes and one goal, a modest return for a player hailed as a future superstar.
What does his fitness mean for Spain?
De La Fuente told reporters, through an interpreter, that Yamal’s recovery is “all but complete” and that the team has been “prudent” with his minutes. He added, “Lamine can play whatever we ask him to play.” Spain has kept a clean‑sheet record, conceding zero goals in the group stage, and the coach hopes Yamal’s presence will preserve that defensive solidity while adding attacking flair.
Are other players also returning?
Spain’s injury list brightened on the same day. Yerémy Pino, who sprained his left shoulder against Uruguay, was declared fit, and Victor Muñoz, the Liverpool winger, is also available after missing the group stage with a muscular issue. Nico Williams remains doubtful for the Austria match but could return if Spain reaches the round of 16.
What’s at stake for Yamal?
The young winger has already recorded 24 goals and 17 assists for Barcelona this season, despite missing the final six La Liga fixtures. A full World Cup performance would give him a platform to showcase his talent alongside Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and Vinícius Júnior, all of whom are enjoying standout tournaments. Moreover, a strong showing could cement his status as Spain’s next attacking mainstay.
What’s next for Spain?
Spain faces Austria on July 24 in the round of 32. A win would mark the nation’s first knockout‑stage victory since the 2010 title run. The team has yet to concede a goal in this World Cup, and De La Fuente hopes Yamal’s energy will help maintain that streak while pushing the side into the last‑16.
Key facts: Yamal’s hamstring injury occurred on April 22; he played 141 minutes in the group stage; Spain’s next match is on July 24 against Austria; coach Luis De La Fuente confirmed Yamal is fit for a full match.
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on whether the 18‑year‑old can stay on the pitch for the full ninety minutes and influence a knockout‑stage result that could revive Spain’s World Cup fortunes.