Hansi Flick Commends Lamine Yamal’s Progress Amid Injury Concerns

Barcelona’s head coach, Hansi Flick, has remarked on the improved discipline of Lamine Yamal, who is working diligently to manage an ongoing groin injury.

The 18-year-old has missed seven matches for both club and country this season due to a persistent pubalgia condition, which causes chronic groin pain. However, he has successfully featured in the last five matches for Barcelona as he navigates this issue.

During Wednesday’s thrilling 3-3 draw with Club Brugge in the Champions League, Yamal showcased his talent by scoring a goal and providing an assist, indicating that he is close to regaining his peak form. Flick credited Yamal’s recent progress to his increased focus on training and rehabilitation.

“We need to be cautious with him,” Flick stated at a press conference prior to the upcoming LaLiga match against Celta Vigo. “He has significantly improved his discipline and is training exceptionally well. His commitment to gym workouts and daily treatment is crucial for his recovery. We believe he is on his way back to his best form, but we must remain vigilant as the injury is not completely resolved.”

Despite the injury, Yamal has managed to score five goals and provide five assists in just ten appearances for Barcelona this season, and he will join the Spanish national team following the match in Vigo. His groin issue first arose while playing for Spain, leading to tensions between the national team and the club. Flick expressed hope that the national team will handle his game time thoughtfully as they prepare for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey.

“It is essential for both us and the national team to monitor his condition,” Flick added.

Yamal’s resurgence on the field is crucial for Barcelona, especially as they seek to improve their form after winning only three of their last seven matches across all competitions. Flick attributed the team’s recent struggles to a lack of fight, particularly evident in the draw against Brugge, and emphasized the need for a stronger performance against a resurgent Celta side this weekend.

“While it is a fact that we have several key players injured, which impacts our performance, we must strive for improvement,” he explained. “November is just the beginning of a long season, and we must aim to elevate our game. Once our players return, we will have the opportunity to regain our competitive edge.”

Flick acknowledged that several significant players, including Raphinha, Pedri, Gavi, and Joan García, will be unavailable for the match against Celta. He noted that defender Jules Koundé is also a doubt after missing training, but center-back Eric García will participate, donning a protective mask after suffering a nasal injury.

Barcelona requires a victory in Vigo to stay within striking distance of LaLiga leaders Real Madrid, who hold a five-point advantage. Meanwhile, Celta aims to build on their recent success and climb into the top half of the table.

“Celta is in great form, having won their last four matches, so they may be in a stronger position than we are,” Flick observed. “However, our success will depend on our attitude and mentality. We discussed this in our meeting this morning, and it is crucial that we approach this match with the determination to secure three points before the international break. This is our objective for Sunday.”