In a surprising and concerning development for Barcelona, a specialist doctor revealed that the team’s young star, Lamine Yamal, is only performing at half his potential on the pitch due to a chronic groin injury, medically known as “sports hernia.” This injury, which significantly impacts his movement and shooting ability, is putting him in a difficult position and noticeably affecting his performance.
A Chronic Injury Affecting Speed and Explosiveness
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According to Dr. Pedro Luis Ripoll, a sports trauma specialist, this injury causes persistent pain in the groin area, limiting Yamal’s ability to move quickly and explosively—two hallmarks of his playing style. The doctor confirmed that the condition became particularly evident during the Clásico match against Real Madrid (1-2) at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Yamal struggled to move and run, and pain was clearly visible in his movements.
The Impact of the Injury on Performance in El Clásico
In statements to the Spanish program El Larguero, Dr. Ripoll said: “This injury is difficult to treat because it significantly affects the player’s shooting ability and movement. This ability can be reduced by up to 50%, which we observed in El Clásico.” He added, “We didn’t see Yamal taking shots on goal; he had difficulty moving around, and he was constantly seen trying to alleviate the pain during the match.”
A “Disabling” Injury Requiring Special Care
Dr. Ripoll explained that Lamine Yamal’s injury significantly impacts his physical performance, noting that it is considered a “disabling” injury that prevents him from reaching his optimal level, leading to subpar performances in matches. Although the injury does not involve structural damage to the joints, it may take a long time to heal and requires special care to prevent further complications.
Barcelona Working to Reduce Physical Burden
In light of this news, Barcelona is currently working to reduce Yamal’s training and physical workload to prevent his condition from worsening. There are growing concerns within the club and the Spanish national team that this injury could affect the player’s participation in crucial matches, especially given his recent inconsistent performances.
Will This Affect His Future?
Lamine Yamal’s future with Barcelona and the Spanish national team may depend on how well the club and team doctors manage this injury. If his condition is not handled carefully, his recovery could take longer, which could significantly impact his performance in upcoming matches.
