Losing the Ballon d'Or, Yamal is ready for a rematch against Dembele

Lamine Yamal is said to be gearing up for the major Champions League clash between Barcelona and PSG.

Barcelona is cautiously managing Lamine Yamal’s recovery as the teenage talent gets closer to peak fitness ahead of the crucial match. Champions League against Paris Saint-Germain, scheduled at 2:00 AM on October 2nd (Vietnam time).

Coach Hansi Flick admitted the young player is “almost ready” but emphasized they won’t take risks. Barca aims to have their prized talent back on Europe’s biggest stage for the upcoming PSG match.

According to Marca, Barcelona has handled Yamal’s return from a groin injury very carefully, viewing the PSG game as a key milestone. Although there was initial hope Yamal might feature before the weekend’s match against Real Sociedad, the current plan is not to rush him. The young star continues individual training with the ball, and optimism remains about his readiness for the continental fixture.

Coach Flick refuses to accelerate Yamal’s comeback despite pressure from media and fans. “He is almost recovered. He looks very good. We are working step by step, but with Yamal, it’s a day-by-day process," Flick said ahead of the La Liga match against Oviedo.

Inside Barca, the PSG match on October 2nd is considered the crucial moment for Yamal’s return. Facing Ballon d’Or winner Dembele and a PSG side that kicked off their campaign with a 4-0 victory over Atalanta, Barca knows this will be a huge challenge. Yamal’s creativity and energy could be the spark to help the Catalan club make a difference against Luis Enrique’s strong squad.

While Yamal remains the focus, defender Alejandro Balde has returned to full team training after a muscle injury, adding defensive options for Flick. However, Barca also faces new setbacks with Fermin Lopez sidelined and Gavi expected out for up to five months, alongside the long-term absence of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen.

Before facing PSG, Barcelona has La Liga matches against Oviedo and Real Sociedad. Although Yamal may be included in the squad list, his chances of starting remain slim. Barca’s main goal is to ensure he is fully fit for the Paris match, which could shape their entire Champions League campaign. With El Clasico also approaching quickly, the Catalan club must manage their squad very wisely to allow their brightest star to shine on the biggest stages.

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