Barcelona have omitted a significant name in their Spanish Super Cup semi-final lineup against Athletic Club, leaving out rising star Lamine Yamal despite his availability from the bench.
Coach Hansi Flick's
side faces a pivotal clash in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, navigating an injury-riddled squad and a relentless fixture list in the new year.
The Catalans are already depleted as veteran keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen flew back to Spain with a fresh setback, handing the gloves to Joan Garcia, while Ronald Araújo's fitness hangs in the balance. This chaos has forced tactical tweaks, with Flick shielding his young talents. Andreas Christensen is also out with his ACL injury.
Why is Lamine Yamal not Starting for Barcelona?
Yamal skipped Tuesday's final training in Jeddah due to a minor stomach illness, opting for solo recovery sessions. Club sources described it as a non-serious issue, possibly a stomach virus, allowing him to do individualized work inside the training complex instead.
But Barcelona's caution-fueled by his recent ailment history and the packed calendar-sees him sidelined from kick-off to manage risk. The Spain international has started from the bench and Flick may use him later in the match if required.
Barcelona Starting XI
Joan Garcia; Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, Alejandro Balde; Pedri, Frenkie de Jong; Roony Bardghji, Fermin Lopez, Raphinha; Ferran Torres
Subs: Kochen, Szczesny, Martin, Olmo, Fernandez, Bernal, Casado, Marques, Yaal, Rashford, Lewandowski
