Lamine Yamal seemed to show some fatigue in the Champions League match against Benfica, being substituted before the hour mark. Many voices point to a possible dip in the Barça winger's performance, as he is currently observing Ramadan. This is one of the most important festivities for Muslims, requiring them to fast during daylight hours throughout the month.
This means that, like all Muslims observing Ramadan, Lamine Yamal has been fasting during daylight hours since March 1. This situation will continue until the next day, 30, with the obligation to pray five times a day. Journalist Dani Senabre spoke about this matter on COPE, noting that it is not a special condition and is something that has been experienced at Barça before.
Dani Senabre Warns About Lamine Yamal and Ramadan: "Barça..."
Dani Senabre has been clear on this matter, pointing out: "It has been reported these days that Barça has data on many other players they've had who observed Ramadan, and it doesn't affect them in terms of injuries, fatigue, or effort".
"The only thing they do is change the timing of meals and provide a stronger, more substantial diet during the hours when they are allowed to eat. But in principle, there is no change, no substitution, and no physical problem should arise from Ramadan," he concluded.
Specific Plan for Lamine Yamal Due to Ramadan
Due to Ramadan, schedules have changed, and nutrition and hydration must be adapted to the matches. Against Benfica, for example, Lamine Yamal didn't eat all day and did so shortly before the match.
All details must be taken care of so he doesn't go out to play feeling heavy and with a full stomach. But he also can't go out to play with an empty stomach and signs of weakness.
In any case, Lamine Yamal is not the first case at Barça of a footballer observing Ramadan. Previously, Dembélé and Kessié did so. The plan is clear: he must hydrate thoroughly before the daily fast begins, because later, during training, while his teammates drink water, he must endure until night without drinking.
Lamine Yamal observing his religion by fasting during Ramadan poses no problem for Barça, which has a large team of nutritionists to make the situation easier for him.