Spanish La Liga club Barcelona may have to endure a lengthy absence for Spanish winger Lamine Yamal instead of a 2-week absence as earlier reported before the international break after new reports show that the youngster is yet to recover from his sprained ankle.

The 17-year-old was absent from Barcelona’s last La Liga fixture before the international break, a 1-0 loss to Real Sociedad, which is Barcelona’s only loss this season. The ankle sprain he suffered was estimated to leave him out of action for 2 weeks.

He also missed the November international break, where Spain played two matches in the Nation’s League, a 2-1 win over Denmark and a 3-2 victory over Switzerland. While that was expected, his estimated return was believed to be this weekend’s La Liga action between Barcelona and Celta Vigo.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said the club tried everything possible to have the player fit before the loss to Real Sociedad, but it didn’t work out.

“We tried everything until the end, but it was not possible that he could play. So we have to take care of him. He’s a young player, and he’s had problems with the ankle, and it’s not so easy for him or for us. We miss one big player, but in the end, we have another. Fermin comes in, and he’s also been doing well in the last few matches.” Flick said.

The trip to Celta Vigo will not be the only match that Lamine Yamal will miss, but he is also expected to sit out of the UEFA Champions League fixture against Brest next week. Yamal has been a key player for Barcelona, scoring eight assists and six goals in 16 appearances in all competitions for the Catalan Giants this season.

Barcelona are currently top of the La Liga standings, six points ahead of Real Madrid who have a game in hand.