'Football doesn't understand ages!' - Lamine Yamal sent heartwarming message by Atletico Madrid president after Barcelona star ruled out of crunch La Liga title showdown through injury

Yamal has been one of the best players in the world and potentially the best youngster to grace the football field since his first-team debut for Barcelona in August 2023 at the age of just 16. The Catalan teenager has helped the Blaugrana compete for titles and helped the Spanish national team with the Euro 2024 in Germany earlier this summer.

Having been on top form under Hansi Flick this season in an enigmatic frontline alongside Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, Yamal has scored six goals and provided 12 assists in 21 appearances but suffered an injury last week and is set to miss their crucial clash against Atletico Madrid on Saturday. Los Rojiblancos president has now sent a heartwarming message to the teen ahead of Barcelona's visit home clash against his side. Barca are currently level on points with Atleti at the top of the table.

Speaking to club media, the Atletico Madrid president said: "It's a shame that Lamine is injured, he is an exceptional footballer, a legacy of Spanish football, and an example that football does not understand ages. We like to face the best and it's a shame that he is going to miss this match. I can only wish him a speedy recovery."

Atletico Madrid captain Koke also talked about Yamal's absence from the crucial La Liga clash and told Gol: "He is one of the most different players that Barcelona has and it is a shame because you always want to play against the best. But it is a point in our favour because if you take away one of the best, that, in theory, benefits us."

Barcelona have generally seemed to struggle without Yamal and the 17-year-old is unlikely to return to action until the middle of next month. As such, Barcelona will be hopeful to not drop points when they take on Atletico Madrid on Saturday, December 21.