By Kamal Yalwa – September 17, 2025
BARCELONA – Lamine Yamal will miss Barcelona’s Champions League opener against Newcastle United at St James’ Park, with head coach Hansi Flick confirming the Spain international has not been included in the travelling squad.
The 18-year-old winger is still recovering from a groin injury that ruled him out of Barcelona’s 6–0 LaLiga win over Valencia on Sunday. He will remain in Catalunya to continue his rehabilitation ahead of this weekend’s league fixture against Getafe.
Barcelona, however, are boosted by the return of Frenkie de Jong, who has been declared fit after overcoming a groin problem sustained during international duty with the Netherlands.
The Catalan giants will also be without Alejandro Balde and Gavi, who are both sidelined with hamstring and knee injuries, respectively.
Flick’s squad flew to England on Wednesday morning, as they prepare to face Eddie Howe’s Newcastle, who return to Champions League action at home.
