Lamine Yamal faces Barcelona fitness race for Atletico Madrid showdown

Lamine Yamal is a major injury concern for Barcelona ahead of their La Liga clash with Atletico Madrid on December 21.

In Barcelona's 1-0 loss to Leganes, Yamal sustained an early ankle injury but chose to continue playing, only to be substituted in the 75th minute. The injury now threatens his availability for Barcelona's final match of 2024.

Reports suggest that Yamal will undergo tests in the next 24 hours to assess the injury's severity.

Although a sprain is suspected, even a mild one could sideline him, potentially impacting his start to 2025.

Barcelona's recent form has worsened, with only one win in their last six league games, heightening the importance of the upcoming match.