Barcelona medical team has put teenage whizkid on a special plan to avoid injuries

According to a report from AS, Barcelona’s medical team is keeping a close eye on Lamine Yamal’s health because his ligaments and tendons are still developing, putting him at risk of injury if he is exposed to too many games at this stage.

Barcelona have had a series of bad luck with injuries in the past, especially with the young players. 

Over the years, players such as Ansu Fati, Pedri and even Ousmane Dembele struggled for fitness and even to this date, these players continue to stumble with consistent match runs.

This is why Barcelona are keeping tabs on Yamal’s fitness as despite his raw talent, his services come with their own set of challenges.

What is Barcelona’s fear?

At just 16 years of age, Yamal’s muscular development, particularly his tendons and ligaments, is still in development and this process usually completes between the ages of 19 and 20.

In light of this, the coaching staff has recognized the need to carefully manage his playing time for the rest of the season, as overexertion could be dangerous. 

Barcelona are being extremely cautious with Lamine Yamal. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Furthermore, the medical team has also devised a personalized regimen for the youngster to minimize the risk of injuries as his explosive style of play, marked by rapid changes in pace, poses a risk of muscular strain.

Barcelona learning from the past

The primary focus is to avoid a repeat of situations like those of Fati or Pedri. Consequently, the club has petitioned the Spanish Federation to limit Yamal’s participation to either the Euro Cup or the Olympic Games this summer, instead of both.

Currently, Yamal’s workload is pushing the limits as he has participated in 40 games, accumulating more than 2000 minutes.

Even this week, he has dedicated time to special preventive measures, particularly focusing on safeguarding his ligaments and tendons. 

While there’s no doubt about Yamal’s importance in upcoming matches, there is a need to carefully balance his involvement and regulate his playing time. 

The coaching staff understands this and while they can push him, they know they must respect the natural pace of his development.