Barcelona academy gem likely to get more opportunities in starting lineup – report

By the look of Lamine Yamal’s statistics, it can be argued that he is getting regular minutes under Xavi and although it is true to some extent, we must point out that out of his 27 matches this season, he has started in just 10.

However, if a report from SPORT is to be believed, the 16-year-old might get more opportunities in coming matches owning to recurring issues at the club.

For what it is worth, Yamal’s last start for Barcelona dates back to December 13 when Barcelona took on Royal Antwerp in a 2-3 defeat.

Considering La Liga, Barcelona’s 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano on November 25 would be the last time he started for the team.

Stats are impressive but at first glance

Lamine is the third busiest player in Barça’s team, having played in 27 games. He’s behind Ilkay Gundogan, who has played 29 games, and Ferran Torres with 28. However, if considering the minutes played, the story is entirely different.

Adding to the aforementioned, the 16-year-old drops down to a lowly 12th place, having clocked 1,186 minutes, which is almost half of what Gundogan has gotten (2,274).

Lamine Yamal has started just 10 games for Barcelona this season. (Photo by Pau BARRENA / AFP) (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

So what next for the young talent?

It is to be noted that Yamal has appeared in each of Barcelona’s 19 La Liga matches as well as all UEFA Champions League and Spanish Super Cup matches. 

Against Osasuna, he played 48 minutes due to Raphinha’s injury, scoring a goal and making history as the youngest scorer in Spanish Super Cup history. 

His dynamic style of play was quite impressive in the semi-final and while many suggested that he should start in the final, Xavi decided to put him on the bench.

Right now, the Copa del Rey suspension is behind him and the club is reeling over the injury to Raphinha.

Adding to it, the irregularity shown by Joao Felix is another factor working in his favour, leading to the suggestion that Yamal might find a place in the starting XI if Xavi opts for a three-man attack.