Relief for Barca as Yamal returns before Madrid clash

Barcelona have received a major boost ahead of next week’s El Clasico, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal set to return to action when they face Girona on Saturday.

The 17-year-old winger missed the 4-1 thrashing by Sevilla and Spain’s World Cup qualifiers due to a groin injury, but he returned to full training this week and is expected to feature against Girona at the Olympic Stadium.

His comeback comes at a crucial time for Hansi Flick’s men, who are reeling from their first defeat of the season and nursing several injuries. Star striker Robert Lewandowski and midfielder Dani Olmo are both sidelined, while Raphinha is still working his way back to full fitness.

Midfielder Pedri Gonzalez didn’t mince words after the Sevilla loss, calling it Barca’s “worst performance” under Flick. The manager, however, urged calm, insisting his players must “move on” from the setback.

“It’s one match, and we lost it. We just have to keep going,” Flick said, praising his team’s improved second-half effort despite a woeful start.

The defeat left Barcelona two points behind leaders Real Madrid, their next opponents after Girona in the La Liga title race. With the Clasico looming large on October 26, Flick will be desperate to avoid another slip-up and restore confidence.

Long-term absentees Gavi, Joan Garcia and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen remain unavailable, leaving the coach with little room for rotation. Still, Yamal’s return could provide the spark Barca need as they navigate a tough run of fixtures that also includes a Champions League clash with Olympiacos on Tuesday.