Lamine Yamal back in Barca squad for Real Sociedad clash

Lamine Yamal is set to return to Barcelona’s squad for Sunday’s LaLiga meeting with Real Sociedad at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys after recovering from a groin injury sustained while on international duty with Spain earlier this month, head coach Hansi Flick said on Saturday. The 18 year old has not played for the Blaugrana since the break and missed four matches in all competitions, but Barcelona have won each game in his absence.

Flick confirmed that Yamal will feature against Real Sociedad, adding that the decision whether he starts or comes off the bench remains undecided. "Lamine Yamal will get minutes tomorrow for sure. Whether as a starter or as a sub, he will play," Flick said. "I think he’s completely ready, there’s no risk of relapse." Yamal himself posted a video on social media this week with the caption "hey! im back," and was seen training on the club’s facilities as he stepped up rehabilitation.

The circumstances of Yamal’s injury have provoked a public spat between Flick and the Spanish national set-up. Flick said earlier this month that Spain officials had played Yamal significant minutes despite knowing he had a problem. The Royal Spanish Football...