Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has expressed confidence that teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is steadily returning to his “top level” as the team prepares for Monday’s La Liga encounter with Rayo Vallecano. The 19-year-old endured a difficult start to the season during the opening match against Elche, but Flick noted a significant improvement in his performance against Athletic Bilbao.
Addressing reporters on Sunday, Flick emphasized the physical challenges the young winger has faced. “I know everyone is worried about how is Lamine, how is he doing. And of course, look at his situation – he played a World Cup after a huge injury,” the coach explained. Yamal has struggled to reach his peak form since sustaining a hamstring injury in April. Although he returned for the World Cup, his individual impact was limited despite Spain’s overall success.
Flick remains optimistic about the teenager’s trajectory, noting that while his first match back was not his best, his contribution to the team remains valuable. “I was very happy that he starts the game and he worked for the team,” Flick said. After a sluggish first half against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, Yamal showed marked improvement in the second half. The manager highlighted the importance of the full 90 minutes on the pitch for the youngster’s development.
Regarding the player’s demeanor, Flick observed that Yamal appeared frustrated following the Elche fixture but has since returned to a more positive state in training. “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 coach remarked. He added that he witnessed excellent signs of form during recent training sessions, confirming that the club is committed to supporting the winger’s progress.
Barcelona has successfully secured victories in both of their opening fixtures, with Raphinha currently filling the role of a makeshift number nine. This tactical adjustment follows the club’s inability to sign their primary transfer target, Julian Alvarez, from Atletico Madrid.
Despite the lack of a new striker, Flick remains satisfied with his current squad. “Of course, I’m happy with my team. [Sporting director] Deco is working on that to strengthen the team. We don’t have pressure,” he stated, reiterating his comfort with the available personnel should no further signings be made. The report also notes that “We saw him in some situations really on this top level.
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