Barça’s Glimmer: Yamal Closer to Return Ahead of El Clásico
12 October 2025
Injury Update and Return Plan
Barcelona is treading a careful line between optimism and caution as the latest news on young star Lamine Yamal filters in. He continues to recover from a groin issue, inching closer to a green light to return to the pitch.
According to AS, Yamal is progressing steadily and could receive medical clearance on Saturday, potentially making the Girona encounter in La Liga possible if there are no unexpected setbacks.
The coaching team led by Hans Flick aims to have him gradually ready to peak ahead of the Clasico on October 26 at the Bernabéu.
The plan is to have him play a few minutes against Girona to reintroduce him before a likely starting role against Olympiakos in the Champions League group stage, though it's unlikely he will complete the full 90 minutes.
The staff believe the gradual return is the best way to avoid any further setbacks to his body.
Therapy and strengthening work in the club's facilities have yielded positive results, and Yamal is set to rejoin group training on Wednesday for the decisive test of his readiness for match action.
Expected Returns and Key Absences
Returning to the squad is not the only good news; Fermín López and Rafinha are close to rejoining the team after recovering from muscular issues. They are expected to receive limited minutes to regain rhythm before the big fixtures ahead.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Juan García remains sidelined and is unlikely to feature in the Clasico, with a potential return penciled in for November 5 against Club Brugge in the Champions League.
In addition, the two top names Javi (Gavi) and Ter Stegen remain out due to knee and back surgeries and are not expected back before the end of the year. Their absence is a major challenge for Flick.
Separately, Spanish international Dani Olmo suffered a calf muscle injury and is expected to be out for three to four weeks, ruling him out of the Clasico as well.
Flick finds himself balancing optimism with caution as he prepares the team for a difficult run of matches, aiming to restore balance and cohesion without risking a relapse.
Overall, Barcelona is handling the injury file with care and focus on long-term stability ahead of both La Liga and Champions League commitments.
Punchline 1: If comebacks came with a warranty, Barca's would be a lifetime deal—applied to medical staff and fans alike.
Punchline 2: In football, timing is everything; Barca’s script uses tiny minutes, big smiles, and a dash of optimistic mischief.
