Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has expressed confidence that teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is steadily returning to his top level ahead of Monday’s La Liga fixture against Rayo Vallecano. The 19-year-old forward faced a difficult start to the season during the opening match against Elche, but Flick noted a significant improvement in his performance during the subsequent victory over Athletic Bilbao.
Addressing the media on Sunday, Flick acknowledged the widespread concern regarding the youngster’s recent form. He highlighted the physical toll of the player’s schedule, noting that Yamal participated in the World Cup shortly after recovering from a major hamstring injury sustained in April. While the winger was part of Spain’s successful tournament campaign, his individual impact remained limited as he worked his way back to full fitness.
Flick emphasized the importance of the 90 minutes Yamal logged against Athletic Bilbao, viewing the full match duration as a vital step in his rehabilitation. Although the teenager struggled during the first half of that encounter, he demonstrated a marked increase in intensity after the interval. The coach noted that while Yamal did not score, his work rate for the team was commendable.
Regarding the player’s development, Flick remarked, “We saw him in some situations really on this top level. And now, you couldn’t see this in the training today, but I saw it, and it was excellent.” He added that the club remains committed to supporting the teenager, noting that he appeared in much higher spirits during recent training sessions compared to his visible frustration following the Elche match.
Flick also addressed the broader emotional state of his squad, stating, “Of course, it’s always good when the players are smiling, but it’s not every day the same way. I’m also not smiling every day. It’s like that.”
The manager also touched upon Barcelona’s current squad composition. Following the club’s inability to secure primary transfer target Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, Raphinha has been deployed as a makeshift number nine. Barcelona has successfully won both of their opening matches despite these personnel challenges.
“Of course, I’m happy with my team. Deco is working on that to strengthen the team. We don’t have pressure,” Flick stated, confirming that he is satisfied with his current roster even if no additional striker is signed before the window closes. The report also notes that “I know everyone is worried about how is Lamine, how is he doing.
