The Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby has received a significant boost for Barcelona after the young forward trained normally with his teammates on Friday and is set to be available for selection this weekend as per Marca.
The derby against Espanyol takes place on Saturday in Cornellà, and, barring any late issues, Yamal is expected to be at Hansi Flick’s disposal for one of the most demanding fixtures on the calendar.
The Barcelona attacker took part in the final training session ahead of the match at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. His presence with the full group confirmed that the minor issue which kept him out of training earlier in the week has been resolved.
As a result, the Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby is now firmly on course to feature one of Barcelona’s most important attacking options.
Lamine Yamal Espanyol Derby Return After Brief Setback
The Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby participation had been in slight doubt after the player missed Thursday’s session, which was the first training of the year for the squad.
Yamal did report to the training ground on that day, but he was not feeling well.
Following a consultation with Barcelona’s medical staff, a decision was taken for him not to train with the group.
Instead, he returned home as a precaution. The club did not release any medical statement, making it clear that the discomfort was not considered serious.
That brief interruption did not carry over into Friday’s preparations. Yamal trained fully with the squad in the final session before the derby, putting to rest any concerns around his fitness.
With no further setbacks reported, the Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby now looks set to include the forward, pending Flick’s final squad selection.
Final Training Session Shapes Lamine Yamal Espanyol Derby Plans
Friday’s session at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper was the last opportunity for Hansi Flick to assess his options ahead of the Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby.
Yamal’s involvement throughout the workout placed him firmly in contention for inclusion, particularly given the importance of the fixture.
Barcelona’s coaching staff monitored the session closely, aware of the physical demands associated with a derby played away from home.
Yamal’s ability to train without restriction was a key indicator that he has recovered fully from the minor issue that forced caution the previous day.
With no medical concerns raised after the session, the expectation is that Yamal will be available when the squad list is finalised.
Pedri, Araujo and Olmo in Focus Before Lamine Yamal Espanyol Derby
Alongside developments surrounding the Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby, Barcelona also received updates on several other first-team players.
Pedri, Ronald Araujo and Dani Olmo all trained on Friday, providing Flick with additional options ahead of Saturday’s match.
Pedri’s participation places him firmly in contention for inclusion, and he is regarded as a certainty to be named in the squad.
His availability adds stability to the midfield as Barcelona prepare for the intensity of a derby environment.
Araujo is also expected to be included. The defender’s presence would offer added strength at the back, which could prove important in a match that is traditionally physical and closely contested.
Olmo’s situation is less clear. While he trained on Friday, it remains uncertain how he is progressing following the dislocated shoulder he suffered in the recent match against Atlético Madrid.
Among the players involved in training, he is considered the least likely to make the final squad for the Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby, depending on how his recovery is assessed.
Roony Bardghji Update Ahead of Lamine Yamal Espanyol Derby
There was one notable absence from full group training as preparations for the Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby continued. Roony Bardghji did not train with the rest of the squad on Friday.
The Swedish player experienced some minor discomfort and worked separately in the gym.
Despite missing the outdoor session, he has not been ruled out of contention for the match against Espanyol.
His condition will continue to be monitored before a final decision is made regarding his availability.
Barcelona’s medical and coaching staff are expected to assess Bardghji’s response to treatment before determining whether he can be included alongside Yamal and the rest of the squad for Saturday’s derby.
Selection Decisions Loom for Lamine Yamal Espanyol Derby
With the Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby approaching, Hansi Flick faces several key decisions regarding his matchday squad.
Yamal’s return to full training has simplified one aspect of that process, ensuring the coach has access to one of his most dynamic attacking players.
At the same time, questions remain around Dani Olmo’s readiness and Roony Bardghji’s fitness, while Pedri and Araujo appear set to be involved.
These factors will shape the final selection as Barcelona prepare for the trip to Cornellà.
The derby carries added significance given its local rivalry and competitive intensity.
Having Lamine Yamal available provides Barcelona with an important option as they aim to navigate the challenge posed by Espanyol.
As things stand, the Lamine Yamal Espanyol derby will see the forward included unless unforeseen issues arise before kick-off.
His recovery, combined with positive signs from other returning players, gives Barcelona encouragement heading into Saturday’s fixture, even as a few fitness questions remain unresolved.
