Barcelona coach Hansi Flick confirmed that teenage star Lamine Yamal is returning to his top level ahead of La Liga fixtures, addressing concerns over the player’s recovery from a hamstring injury and subsequent World Cup campaign following a challenging start to the domestic season at Elche.
FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has moved to reassure supporters regarding the physical condition of 19-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, indicating that the teenage star is finding his way back to his best form ahead of league fixtures. Yamal struggled during the opening match of the season at Elche, where he was hampered by a headache, but showed noticeable improvement in the subsequent encounter against Athletic Bilbao.
The player’s current trajectory follows a demanding period that included a hamstring injury sustained in April, a return during the World Cup with Spain, and a subsequent three-week holiday. Flick emphasized the need for patience and institutional support for the young winger.
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,
Hansi Flick, Barcelona coach
Flick Evaluates Yamal’s Recovery and 90-Minute Shift Against Athletic
Despite a disappointing first half against Athletic Bilbao, Yamal increased his output after the interval and played the full 90 minutes on the pitch. Flick noted that completing a full match represents a significant positive step in the player’s physical conditioning.
Addressing rumors that Yamal’s subdued demeanor on the bench at Elche stemmed from the departures or uncertain futures of close friends such as Alejandro Balde, Marc Casado, and Hector Fort, Flick clarified that physical discomfort was the true cause.
He had a problem, a headache. Lamine is a genius, he has had three weeks of vacation and has only been able to train for a few days. It’s normal that he’s not at the highest level,
Hansi Flick, Barcelona coach
During the Elche fixture, Yamal contributed significantly in limited minutes, pressing on the opening goal and supplying a first-touch pass on the second before being substituted.
Squad Updates Involve Balde, Gavi, and Newcomer Rodri
The manager also provided updates on several other squad members. Left-back Alejandro Balde, whose absence from the squad list for the Elche match sparked rumors of a potential departure, was confirmed to be part of the team setup following discussions regarding his commitment to the club.
Midfielder Gavi, who sustained an injury after committing fully to a tackle against Elche, is recovering well and expected to return to action within a week. Flick stated: He’s fine, much better than after the game. We have to wait a week for him to come back.
Meanwhile, newly arrived Spain captain Rodri is positioned to make his club debut, with Flick planning for him to play and anchor the midfield alongside Pedri and Marc Bernal.
Transfer Window Stance and Forward Planning
With the transfer window nearing its close and the club operating without a natural number nine following the summer departures of Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha has filled the role as a makeshift number nine. Atletico Madrid’s reluctance to release top target Julian Alvarez to a direct rival has complicated ongoing recruitment efforts.
Flick maintained a relaxed posture regarding potential additions, emphasizing that sporting director Deco is working to strengthen the squad without placing undue pressure on the institution.
Of course, I’m happy with my team. Deco is working on that to strengthen the team. We don’t have pressure,
Hansi Flick, Barcelona coach
Flick added that the club must balance immediate competitive demands with long-term roster construction to maintain overall organizational stability, noting that the club must also think about the future, not just the present.
