Spain have suffered a major injury concern ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after star winger Lamine Yamal missed the team’s main training session on Friday due to a thigh problem.
The Barcelona youngster trained separately from the main squad and was seen with heavy strapping on his left thigh. However, early reports suggest the injury is not serious enough to rule him out of Sunday’s final against Lionel Messi’s Argentina.
Lamine Yamal Trains Away From Main Group
Spain resumed preparations for the World Cup final just days after defeating France in the semifinals.
During Friday’s training session, Yamal did not join the main group. Instead, he completed light exercises away from his teammates alongside defender Pedro Porro, who is also managing a fitness issue.
The sight of Spain’s biggest attacking threat training separately immediately raised concerns among fans ahead of the biggest match of the tournament.
How Did Yamal Pick Up The Injury?
Yamal suffered the injury during Spain’s semifinal victory over France.
In the 22nd minute, the teenager was brought down inside the penalty area by Lucas Digne, earning Spain a penalty that was successfully converted by Mikel Oyarzabal.
Although Yamal continued and completed the full 90 minutes, reports claimed the pain worsened after the match. Spain’s medical staff reportedly treated him at the team hotel in Dallas before the squad resumed training.
Spain Confident Yamal Will Be Available
Despite the injury scare, Spain remain optimistic about Yamal’s availability for the World Cup final.
The 19-year-old is still expected to be included in the starting lineup against Argentina. The separate training session appears to have been a precaution to manage his workload before the title clash.
His availability would provide a major boost for Spain, considering the winger has been one of the standout performers throughout the tournament.
FIFA Investigates Argentina Over Falklands Banner
Meanwhile, Argentina has found themselves at the center of controversy ahead of the final.
FIFA has opened an investigation after several Argentina players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (The Falklands are Argentine) following their 2-1 semifinal victory over England in Atlanta.
The banner refers to the disputed Falkland Islands, a long-standing territorial issue between Argentina and the United Kingdom that led to the 1982 Falklands War.
Banner Sparks Political Backlash
The Falkland Islands Government described the banner as “insensitive,” while criticism also emerged from the United Kingdom.
According to reports, many in Britain viewed the display as disrespectful to the 255 British soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict.
This is reportedly the second incident involving Argentina during the tournament. Earlier, players were also reported to have sung a chant referencing the Falkland Islands after their Round of 16 victory over Egypt.
Following the latest controversy, FIFA has begun reviewing the incident and could decide whether disciplinary action is necessary.
World Cup Final Set For A Historic Clash
Despite the off-field developments, attention remains firmly on Sunday’s final.
Spain will look to lift their second FIFA World Cup title, while defending champions Argentina aim to retain the trophy and give Lionel Messi another historic triumph on football’s biggest stage.
All eyes will now be on Yamal’s final fitness test before one of the most anticipated World Cup finals in recent history.