Sport

Lamine Yamal’s High-Performance Plan And Managing Ramadan at Barcelona

19.02.2026
Editor edt

As Ramadan 2026 begins (February 18 – late March), Lamine Yamal is set to observe the holy month while maintaining his role as Barcelona’s most explosive winger.

This marks his second season balancing the physical demands of La Liga with his faith, and the club has reactivated a “tailored performance protocol” to ensure he stays at his peak.

The “Electro-Breakfast” Routine

To handle the grueling daytime fast, the 18-year-old follows a strict early-morning schedule.

  • The 4 AM Wake-up: Yamal starts his day at dawn to consume a high-energy breakfast (Suhoor).

  • Strategic Hydration: He uses a specific electrolyte tablet during his morning meal. This helps his body retain fluids longer and minimizes the intense thirst typically felt during afternoon training sessions or matches.

  • Post-Suhoor Rest: After his meal and morning prayers, he returns to sleep for a few hours before heading to the Ciutat Esportiva for training.

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Barcelona’s Medical Blueprint

The club’s medical and nutritional staff are experts in this transition, having previously managed the fasts of players like Ousmane Dembélé, Franck Kessié, and Ansu Fati.

  • The Two Pillars: The plan focuses on nutrient-dense nighttime meals (Iftar) that avoid heavy fats to prevent sluggishness, and aggressive hydration during the non-fasting hours.

  • Load Management: While Yamal hasn’t asked for a reduced workload, the coaching staff is monitoring his biometric data closely. If any drop in energy or recovery speed is detected, his training intensity will be adjusted immediately.

Testing the Fast: Barcelona vs. Levante

This Sunday at 16:15, Barcelona hosts Levante at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. This will be Yamal’s first official match while fasting this year.

  • The Challenge: Since the match kicks off in the afternoon, he will be several hours into his fast by the time he takes the field.

  • Precedent: Last season, Yamal famously maintained his high level during Ramadan, and the club remains calm about his ability to adapt.

“I feel healthy and ready,” Yamal told DAZN. “The club provides everything I need to be in the best shape while respecting my faith.”