Lamine Yamal Diagnosed With Chronic 'Pubalgia' Injury That Can Never Be Cured
Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has been diagnosed with a chronic groin condition that could affect the remainder of his football career.
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal diagnosed with chronic pubalgia, an incurable groin injury that may impact his long-term football career.
Since breaking into Barcelona’s senior squad at just 15 years old in August 2023, Yamal has risen rapidly through the football ranks. The young forward has earned global recognition for his skill, composure, and influence on the pitch, making him one of the most exciting players in modern football.
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Yamal’s breakthrough year saw him guide both club and country to major victories. He played a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph and helped Barcelona achieve a domestic treble. His remarkable performances earned him second place in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings behind Ousmane Dembélé of Paris Saint-Germain, and he became the first player ever to win the Kopa Trophy twice.
Recent reports from Spain indicate that the 18-year-old has been managing a chronic groin injury, medically referred to as pubalgia. The condition, which causes persistent pain in the pubic area, is known for its complexity and long-term effects. Yamal’s discomfort was visible during recent matches, particularly during El Clásico, where he appeared to play through significant pain.
The issue has forced him to miss several matches for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team throughout the season. Although the club has not issued an official medical statement, Spanish outlet Sport reports that Yamal’s condition may never fully heal.
Physiotherapist Lluis Puig explained that pubalgia is not a traditional muscle injury but rather an alteration in the pubic region where multiple muscles intersect. He noted that treatment involves ongoing preventative and compensatory work to maintain performance levels, adding that the condition requires long-term management rather than a short recovery period.
Puig also suggested that Yamal’s growth and physical development could have contributed to the injury, affecting posture and muscle balance.
Sports traumatologist Dr. Ripoll, speaking to El Larguero, described the condition as “difficult to treat,” emphasizing that it can limit a player’s ability to move and shoot by nearly 50%. He explained that although Yamal can continue playing, the pain significantly reduces his performance capabilities.
Yamal joins a list of elite footballers who have battled pubalgia, including Barcelona legend Lionel Messi, who faced similar challenges during his early career.
The young forward’s medical team continues to monitor his progress closely as Barcelona aim to manage his workload and extend his longevity at the highest level.
