Lamine Yamal returns to training ahead of Newcastle United return leg

The 18-year-old winger recovers from a brief bout of illness to rejoin the Barcelona squad, while Eric García overcomes a minor hamstring strain

Barcelona received a significant boost on Friday morning as Lamine Yamal returned to training with the rest of his teammates at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper.

The news comes as a major relief for Hansi Flick and the Blaugrana faithful, following a period of uncertainty regarding his availability for Sunday’s Matchday 28 fixture against Sevilla.

Yamal, who has become an indispensable figure in the Barcelona attack with 14 league goals this season, had missed Thursday’s session due to a fever and general physical weakness.

The medical staff had taken a cautious approach, visiting the player at his home and advising rest, which also led to his absence from a team dinner hosted by club captain Ronald Araújo on Thursday evening.

The physical management of Yamal has been a primary source of concern for the coaching staff, as the young star has rarely been rotated despite a gruelling schedule.

Having played a central role in Tuesday’s 1-1 Champions League draw against Newcastle, the brief rest period appears to have been sufficient for his recovery.

With nearly 48 hours remaining until the kick-off at the Spotify Camp Nou, the academy graduate is expected to be at 100 percent capacity to help Barcelona maintain their four-point lead at the top of the LaLiga standings.

Yet, his minutes might be managed as Barcelona are scheduled to host Newcastle in the return leg of their Round of 16 tie on Wednesday.

😤 Yamal’s penalty prowess
🎯 Clinical Barcola@FedExEurope | #FPZunpacked pic.twitter.com/0McdriYTBq

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2026

Injury update for Eric García

In addition to Yamal’s return, Eric García’s presence in Friday’s session provides much-needed stability to a defensive unit that has been stretched by injuries to Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde.

García missed the midweek trip to England after suffering a hamstring overload, but medical exams earlier this week ruled out any long-term damage.

While he may start on the bench to manage his workload ahead of the decisive clash against Newcastle, his availability gives Flick a versatile option to anchor the backline or step into a holding midfield role alongside Marc Bernal.

The match against Sevilla is also expected to be a landmark occasion for the club beyond the tactical setup. After nearly seven months on the sidelines following a severe knee injury, Gavi is reportedly in line to receive the medical “green light” to be included in the matchday squad.

His return would coincide with a significant moment for the stadium itself, as the Camp Nou will open its north stand for the first time since the renovations began, increasing the temporary capacity to 63,000.