India, Aug. 1 -- FC Barcelona took on Birmingham City FC in their second preseason fixture on Friday, but one notable name was missing from the starting lineup-No. 10 Lamine Yamal.

Yamal was not included anywhere in the matchday squad-not even among the substitutes.

His absence may have initially sparked concerns among supporters about a possible injury, but there is no fitness issue behind the decision.

Instead, the 19-year-old, who helped Spain win the FIFA World Cup, is unavailable because of FIFA regulations requiring clubs to provide players who participated in the tournament with a minimum 21-day rest period.

The rule is designed to give players adequate recovery time after the World Cup and reduce the risk of injury before the ...