Will Lamine Yamal play tonight against Villareal? Latest update on Barca star's matchday availability (18 May, 2025)

FC Barcelona takes on Villarreal at home in one of the last matches of the 2024–25 La Liga campaign, and all eyes are on wonderkid Lamine Yamal to see if he will make a first-team appearance this evening. Barcelona vs Valencia is scheduled for 7:00 PM local time (CEST) start and will be played at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.Barcelona has already secured the La Liga title, and Flick will have the luxury of being able to rotate his team and possibly rest some important players with the season coming to an end and behind a busy summer schedule.Lamine Yamal had been free from injuries but is now in full match fitness today. Yet, given he has had a high volume of game time this season and Barcelona’s status as already confirmed champions, Flick could rest the 17-year-old prodigy. That sort of tactical gesture would give some of the other squad players some vital playing time and give Yamal a less tired look going into the summer.One of this season's breakthrough players has followed impressive domestic and European performances. However, his ball intelligence, decision-making, and his freedom of thinking made him one of Barcelona's core players in a flash, despite his young age. As much as fans would like to see him play one more time this season, the club might be more interested in his long-term health.The La Liga title is done and dusted, so Barcelona is likely to name an entirely changed XI tonight. Other important players, such as Robert Lewandowski, Araujo, and Pedri, could also be on the bench or play sparingly as Flick plans to test his playing resources. The ruling could benefit academy stars and fringe players who have not had a chance to play on the biggest stage.Also Read: Who is Barcelona star Lamine Yamal’s girlfriend? A look at his rumored partner Alex PadillaMeanwhile, Villarreal will be battling to pick up those important points in their push to qualify for Europe. That could make this compelling despite Barcelona’s slack position. The visitors will probably throw everything into this weekend, making the match even more uncertain for both teams.