UMVA has learned that Spain's World Cup hopes have been given a significant boost with positive updates on the fitness of their teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, who has been sidelined since mid-April with a hamstring tear.
The 18-year-old Barcelona star had been expected to miss the team's opening two World Cup games, but it now appears he is on track to be available for their first match against Cape Verde, with sources close to the team indicating he will likely be given a few minutes off the bench to ease him back into action.
Despite concerns from Barcelona that rushing him back may be an unnecessary risk, Lamine Yamal is reportedly keen to play in the opening game, and his determination has been matched by the optimism of Spain's manager, Luis de la Fuente, who believes his star man will be ready for the team's first match on June 15.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Lamine Yamal's recovery is progressing well, and he is expected to be given more time on the pitch in Spain's second game against Saudi Arabia, with the aim of having him back to full strength for the team's final group game against Uruguay.
Spain's manager has been bullish about the prospects of his key players returning to fitness, stating that Lamine Yamal, along with Nico Williams and Víctor Munoz, are all meeting their recovery deadlines and doing very well, which is a major boost to the team's World Cup chances.
With Lamine Yamal's return to fitness, Spain will be looking to make a strong start to their World Cup campaign, and his presence on the pitch will be a major factor in their hopes of success, as they look to navigate a tough group stage and make a deep run in the tournament.
