Barcelona Star Lamine Yamal Playing Through Painful Groin Injury, Doctor Says

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal is reportedly playing at only half of his ability due to a painful groin injury. Medical expert Dr. Pedro Luis Ripoll says the 18-year-old is struggling with pubalgia, a chronic condition that causes pain in the pubic area and limits movement and shooting power.

The teenager’s discomfort was visible during Barcelona’s 2-1 loss to Real Madrid in the El Clasico on Sunday. Yamal appeared less explosive and avoided taking shots, raising concerns among fans and club officials.

According to doctors, pubalgia can worsen during high-intensity matches. Barcelona and Spain national team medical staff are now monitoring Yamal closely to avoid making the injury worse.

Speaking on Spanish radio programme El Larguero, Dr. Ripoll described the injury as “difficult to treat.”

“It is an injury that causes pain and reduces the player’s ability to move and shoot by almost 50%, which is exactly what we saw in El Clasico,” he said. “He hardly shoots, he stretches a lot and finds it hard to move. It allows him to play, but not at his best.”

The doctor added that the injury does not involve permanent joint damage, but recovery could take weeks or months if not carefully managed.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal is also facing fitness concerns after suffering another injury to his right knee. Madrid confirmed he has a “loose body” in the joint, which can lead to swelling and pain. Dr. Ripoll said the condition can be serious if the loose cartilage interferes with movement.

Carvajal’s recurring injury leaves Madrid short on the right side of defence. His absence may also affect Spain’s national team selections, with international fixtures coming up soon.

Tensions between Barcelona and Real Madrid players followed the final whistle on Sunday. Carvajal confronted Yamal, reportedly telling him, “You speak too much. Speak now,” after the youngster joked before the match on Twitch that “Real Madrid steal.” The exchange led to a brief confrontation involving several players, though no disciplinary action has been taken.

Barcelona are now five points behind Real Madrid in the league standings.

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