Lamine Yamal receives bad news from a 'close friend' ahead of the Messi showdown

Lamine Yamal is set to play with Spain in the Finalissima against Argentina in March, yet prior to the clash with Lionel Messi, the promising 18-year-old has been given unwelcome news about a crucial La Roja member’s doubtful availability.

Less than two months remain before the big match, and the anticipation is intensifying day by day. Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni is reportedly already planning strategies to limit Yamal’s influence. Although Spain does not rely solely on this “precious gem,” coach Luis de la Fuente might lose important tactical options for the game.

According to Athletic Bilbao’s announcement, Nico Williams will be sidelined indefinitely to treat pubalgia. The 23-year-old missed the recent match against Real Oviedo and is now undergoing recovery, which may directly affect his availability for the Finalissima.

Besides confirming Mikel Jauregizar’s injury, Athletic Bilbao also released a statement regarding Williams’ condition: “The player has started specialized treatment with an external expert to address pubalgia, including specific exercises. Depending on progress, he will be unable to participate in upcoming matches.” The club also stated that the recovery time for both players “remains uncertain.”

Alongside Yamal, Williams is one of Spain’s most dangerous one-on-one dribblers. Finding an equivalent replacement within the current squad is not easy. Previously, this winger missed four consecutive matches in September due to a groin injury and was absent from the national team camps in October and November.

According to Marca, pubalgia could sideline Williams for a minimum of four weeks. With the Finalissima against Argentina scheduled for March 27, there is significant doubt about whether he can be fit enough to play a high-intensity match without risking re-injury.

Midfielder Alex Baena from Atletico Madrid could fill Williams’ spot, but losing Williams remains a considerable blow, especially given his clear synergy with Yamal on the wing.

Additionally, Spain is closely monitoring several other players ahead of the Finalissima. Confirmed absentees due to serious injuries include Mikel Merino and Samu Aghehowa. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Unai Simón; defenders Dani Carvajal, Aymeric Laporte, Robin Le Normand, Marc Cucurella; and midfielders Rodri Hernández, Fabián Ruiz, and Dani Olmo are all facing fitness issues, though some might recover in time if their progress is favorable.