FC Barcelona's Lamine Yamal faces weeks on sidelines injured

The 17-year-old winger was ruled out of Sunday's La Liga clash against Real Sociedad due to discomfort and, after undergoing medical tests on Monday, has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 sprain of the syndesmosis in his right ankle.

Barcelona have confirmed he is expected to be sidelined for approximately two to three weeks.

This setback rules Yamal out of Spain's international matches against Denmark and Switzerland, as well as Barca's return to La Liga action against Celta Vigo on 23 November.

Additionally, he is set to miss the Champions League encounter with Brest on 26 November and the La Liga fixture against Las Palmas on 30 November.

Yamal had already skipped Saturday's pre-match training session to manage his workload but joined the squad travelling to San Sebastian on Sunday.

However, shortly before kick-off, Barcelona released a statement announcing his withdrawal due to the ankle issue. Yamal watched the game from the stands as Barcelona took on Real Sociedad without him.

The injury was first sustained last Wednesday during Barcelona's Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade, where Yamal received a heavy knock to his right ankle.

Despite receiving treatment in the following days, he continued to experience discomfort, ultimately ruling him out of Sunday's match. Monday's tests confirmed the extent of the injury.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente had initially called up Yamal for their two fixtures during this international break, but the youngster will now focus on recovery, with hopes of a swift return as Barcelona look to maintain momentum in both La Liga and the Champions League.

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