Hansi Flick has fired back at the weekly media frenzy over Lamine Yamal, highlighting the constant attention on the young star.
The teenager’s explosive runs and assists have fueled the Blaugrana’s title push, but recent El Clásico struggles at the Bernabéu—where he played more centrally—highlighted adaptation challenges amid physical niggles.
As Barcelona trails Real Madrid by five points, Flick faces the task of managing youth amid a drip of injuries, including Pedri’s three-week thigh tear, while welcoming back Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo to group training.
In a major claim during Friday’s pre-Elche presser, Flick vowed: “I will always protect and help Lamine.” Frustrated by constant media scrutiny—“Is it just this week? Every week!”—he revealed that Yamal still feels occasional pain but is improving through honest talks, as reported by Diario Sport.
“We speak normally, sincerely; that’s how we work best. He’s a fantastic young guy, and we’ll continue on this path,” Flick said, positioning himself as a paternal figure.
Yamal’s contained one-on-ones in Madrid stemmed from discomfort, but his evolution—echoing Messi’s inward shifts—shows versatility, though Flick prioritizes his natural wing role for rhythm.
Flick emphasized ball possession for Yamal’s magic: “The best way back to his level is his usual position. In some games, inside works, but touching the ball creates good things.”
With Elche at Montjuïc on Sunday, Barcelona must react, pressing relentlessly against a well-drilled side. Flick returns to the bench after his Clásico suspension, joking: “No more watching from behind glass!”
Injuries test Flick’s pragmatism—“I don’t dwell on the absent; focus on elevating others, especially youth”—but Yamal’s protection underscores his philosophy.
Lewandowski and Olmo’s sharpness boosts options, while caution rules for Andreas Christensen. Barcelona’s resilience shines: five points adrift demands victory, with Flick’s shield ensuring Yamal thrives long-term in the title hunt.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
