Lamine Yamal has suffered another injury just before the upcoming FIFA international break, a period that will provide him with extra time to recover and return to action for FC Barcelona. Already, there are signs of the team’s growing reliance on the young star.

What Is Lamine Yamal's Injury?

The Barça player has sustained a Grade 1 sprain of the syndesmosis in his right ankle, a condition that is expected to keep him off the field for two to three weeks, according to information released by the club.

Yamal’s first missed match due to injury was against Real Sociedad, following a season in which he appeared in 60 games for both club and country.

Is There a Dependence on Yamal?

It's worth taking a closer look at Barcelona's schedule—and particularly their results as they lead La Liga this season. There's reason to question whether Barça might have a "Lamine-dependence."

The fact is that in the two matches where Yamal hasn’t started, Barcelona has ended up losing. These games include their clash with Osasuna at El Sadar and the recent away loss against Real Sociedad.

Lamine Yamal's Importance to Barça

The 17-year-old has quickly become Barcelona’s third-highest scorer, with six goals—five of which have come in La Liga, where Barcelona currently sits six points clear of Real Madrid.

In terms of assists, Yamal has provided eight, making him the team’s second-best playmaker, trailing only Raphinha. The Brazilian leads Barça's attacking contributions with 22 goals and assists combined. Polish striker Robert Lewandowski follows with 21 combined contributions, including a league-high 14 goals, putting him at the top of the scoring chart.

A Timely Break for Barcelona

Yamal’s injury coincides with the last FIFA break of the year, meaning he will miss fewer games for Barça.

Barcelona’s next match is at Balaídos against Celta de Vigo on November 23, giving Yamal two full weeks since his injury. This timeframe might allow him to return, depending on his recovery progress.

The club is cautious about his return and isn’t rushing him. Should he not be ready for La Liga, he may also miss the Champions League game against Brest and the La Liga match against Las Palmas, scheduled for November 26 and 30, respectively.