2026 World Cup / Spain - Argentina: Lamine Yamal ruled out of the final?
Just days before the final against Argentina, Lamine Yamal’s physical condition is already raising concerns in Spain.
Three days ahead of the 2026 World Cup final against Argentina, an image has cast doubt in the Spanish camp. During La Roja’s first training session in New Jersey, Lamine Yamal was seen with a bandage on his left thigh and did not take part in any group drills.
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Indeed, the footage, shared by daily newspaper AS, quickly sparked concern among Spanish fans. That same thigh had already sidelined the Barcelona wonderkid for a lengthy spell last spring, inevitably fueling questions just days before the tournament’s most pivotal showdown.
His physical condition will nonetheless be closely monitored ahead of the final. With 22 successful dribbles in this World Cup, compared to Lionel Messi’s 24, Yamal is set for a symbolic showdown against the Argentine legend—a clash that could signal a generational handover on the world stage.