At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal has become a key piece in Hansi Flick’s project at FC Barcelona. His impact has been so significant that, so far in 2025, the Catalan winger is already the sixth player with the most minutes played worldwide—an impressive stat that confirms his rise but also raises concerns about potential physical burnout.

According to BeSoccer Pro, the young talent from La Masia has accumulated 2,330 minutes in just 26 matches, split between his appearances for Barça (24 games) and the Spanish national team (2). Only Jules Koundé has logged more minutes among Barça’s first-team players, with 2,519 minutes.

A stat that proves his greatness… and sparks concern

Lamine is not only the underage player with the most minutes played in 2025—well ahead of other rising stars like Estêvão Willian (Palmeiras) and Geovany Quenda (Sporting CP)—but he has also featured in nearly every available match this year. The only exception was a Copa del Rey clash against Barbastro, which he missed due to a minor ligament injury.

Since his return in the Spanish Super Cup against Athletic Club, he’s been a regular starter for both club and country. In his 26 starts this year, he has been subbed off 14 times—most often (7) after the 80th minute. His offensive contribution has been stellar: 8 goals and 6 assists, helping Barça reach the top of LaLiga, the Copa del Rey final, and the Champions League semifinals.

However, the hectic calendar is starting to take its toll. Since the last international break, the youngster from Mataró has scored just once and registered one assist in his last 7 matches. Against Real Betis, he lost possession 30 times—his worst stat of the season. And in the second leg against Borussia Dortmund, he only completed 2 of the 9 dribbles he attempted.

With three competitions still in play and crucial matches coming up—including the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid and Champions League semifinals versus Inter Milan—Flick’s management will be key. Will he continue to rely on Lamine’s intensity, or give him rest in league games against the likes of Celta or Mallorca?

What’s clear is that Barcelona’s future heavily depends on Lamine Yamal’s boots. But the challenge lies in balancing his brilliance with the need to protect his body.