Why Barcelona are keeping a close eye on Lamine Yamal ahead of Spain’s clash with Denmark – explained

Yamal has been called up by Spain once again, having won 16 caps already at the age of 17. He featured in his country’s 4-1 win over Switzerland at the weekend, providing an assist, but Sport now reports that Barcelona are keeping a close eye on the minutes he plays.

• Getty Images Sport

  THE EXPLANATION

  In total this season, Yamal has played 1,014 minutes out of a possible 1,170 and Sport claims that Barca are hopeful Spain will manage his minutes. However, a wrinkle for manager Luis de la Fuente is the fact that he is a yellow card away from suspension, and would miss the return fixture against Switzerland. From Barcelona’s perspective, him collecting a booking may well be a blessing.

  DID YOU KNOW?

  Yamal has been in remarkable form for Barcelona this season, scoring five goals and registering five assists in just 11 games. He has also scored three goals for Spain.

• Getty

  WHAT NEXT?

  Spain will aim to record another big win on Sunday against the Danes. They then face Serbia on Tuesday.