Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal could make first start for Spain against Cyprus

After enjoying a stunning rise to prominence over the past couple of months, Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal seems set to add another feather to his cap tonight.

Indeed, SPORT is reporting that the 16-year-old La Masia gem could be in line to make his first-ever start for the Spanish national team when they take on Cyprus in the UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifiers in Granada.

Already a history-maker

After enjoying a breakthrough at Barcelona under Xavi during the early parts of this season, Yamal earned his first-ever call-up to the Spanish national team.

Manager Luis de la Fuente then proceeded to hand the teenage forward his debut in the 7-1 win against Georgia last weekend, making him the youngest debutant for La Roja.

Having scored his first goal for the national team on his maiden appearance, Yamal created further history, as he became the youngest-ever goalscorer for Spain.

His impressive run, coupled with the injuries to Dani Olmo and Marco Asensio, could result in a start in tonight’s game against Cyprus reports SPORT.

De la Fuente has called up Ferran Torres and Yeremy Pino to make up for the absences of Olmo and Asensio, but is likely to prefer Yamal as a starter against Cyprus as he has been in the camp for longer.

“We have to take care of him, this will always be a priority. Injuries are part of football. We must be patient with Lamine, he will have his chances,” the manager said on the eve of the match.

Alejandro Balde also likely to start

Another Barcelona starlet, Alejandro Balde, is also in contention to start tonight for Spain as per the report, coming in for Jose Gaya at left-back.

Gavi, however, could be given a rest by de la Fuente, whereas Torres could be called on from the bench at a later stage in the game.