FC Barcelona took on Birmingham City FC in their second preseason fixture on Friday, but one notable name was missing from the starting lineup—No. 10 Lamine Yamal.
Yamal was not included anywhere in the matchday squad—not even among the substitutes.
His absence may have initially sparked concerns among supporters about a possible injury, but there is no fitness issue behind the decision.
Instead, the 19-year-old, who helped Spain win the FIFA World Cup, is unavailable because of FIFA regulations requiring clubs to provide players who participated in the tournament with a minimum 21-day rest period.
The rule is designed to give players adequate recovery time after the World Cup and reduce the risk of injury before the new season begins.
