Barcelona’s head coach Hansi Flick has noted that Lamine Yamal, now 18, has improved his discipline in response to a persistent groin issue. Yamal previously missed seven matches for both club and country due to a pubalgia condition, which causes chronic groin pain, but he has managed to play in Barça’s last five games while dealing with this challenge.
During Wednesday’s 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League, Yamal showcased his potential by scoring once and providing an assist, indicating that he is beginning to regain his best form, a development Flick attributes to his increased attention to training and treatment.
“We need to take good care of him,” Flick mentioned at a press conference ahead of Sunday’s La Liga match against Celta Vigo. “His discipline has changed significantly; he’s training much better now, including in the gym and with his daily treatments. This new approach is crucial for managing his injury, and I believe he will return to his top level, though it’s a work in progress.”
This season, Yamal has still managed to contribute five goals and five assists in ten appearances for Barça. Following Sunday’s game, he will join the Spain national team, where he initially sustained his groin issue, creating tension between club and country over his fitness. Flick hopes the national team will handle his playing time wisely as they aim to secure a place in next summer’s World Cup with upcoming matches against Georgia and Turkey.
“We need to care for him, and so does the national team,” Flick emphasized.
Yamal’s revival is critical for Barça as they seek to regain form after winning only three of their last seven matches across competitions. Flick connected the team’s recent struggles, including the draw with Brugge, to a lack of intensity, and he expects a stronger performance from the players against a confident Celta side this weekend.
“It’s a fact that we have numerous key players injured, and this has impacted us,” he commented regarding the team’s downturn. “While it’s November, we still have a long way to go until May. We all recognize that we need to elevate our performance. Once our injured players return and have a couple of matches under their belts, I believe they can significantly aid us.”
“But for now, we need to fight in this upcoming match. In our last game, we didn’t show the necessary fight, and I hope we can demonstrate that this time.”
Flick also mentioned doubts over defender Jules KoundéEric García will still participate despite a broken nose, as he can play with a protective mask.
– Yamal included in Spain squad, De la Fuente calls selection ‘obvious’
–
Barcelona showcases new Camp Nou to 23,000 fans at a test event
–
Transfer news: PSG targets Barcelona defender García
Barcelona must secure a victory against Celta to keep pace with La Liga leaders Real Madrid, who currently hold a five-point advantage at the top of the table. Meanwhile, Celta aims to build on their recent form and push into the top half of the standings.
“Celta is riding high with four consecutive wins, putting them in a better position than us,” Flick noted. “However, attitude and mentality are crucial. We discussed this this morning; our goal is to win. It’s important to head into the international break with three more points, and that’s what we aim to do on Sunday.”