Flick Praises Yamal’s Improved Discipline Amid Injury Concerns

BARCELONA, Spain — Barcelona’s head coach Hansi Flick has acknowledged that Lamine Yamal has shown greater discipline in an effort to manage an ongoing groin issue.

The 18-year-old player missed seven matches for both club and country earlier this season due to a persistent pubalgia condition, which is characterized by chronic pain in the groin area. However, Yamal has since started the last five matches for Barça as he learns to cope with the problem.

During Wednesday’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League, Yamal demonstrated signs of returning to his best form, scoring one goal and providing an assist. Flick attributes this resurgence to Yamal’s increased attention to detail in his training regimen.

“We need to take care of him,” Flick stated in a news conference prior to Sunday’s match against Celta Vigo in LaLiga. “He has improved his discipline significantly. His training has been excellent, and he is committed to his daily treatments.

“Managing this injury requires this level of dedication. I believe he is on the path back to peak performance, though we must remain cautious as recovery is not yet complete.”

Despite his injury challenges, Yamal has contributed five goals and five assists across ten appearances for Barça this season. Following Sunday’s game in Vigo, he will join the Spanish national team, where he initially sustained the groin issue, leading to tensions between club and country. Flick hopes the national team will manage his playing time judiciously as they aim to secure qualification for next summer’s World Cup, with matches against Georgia and Turkey on the horizon.

“It is crucial for both us and the national team to handle him carefully,” Flick emphasized.

Yamal’s return to form could be pivotal for Barcelona, who have won only three of their last seven matches across all competitions. Flick attributed the recent setback against Brugge to a lack of competitive spirit and expressed that he expects a stronger performance from his players against a formidable Celta side this weekend.

“It is important to note that our squad is currently plagued by injuries to key players, which significantly impacts our performance,” he explained. “As we approach November, we must stay focused and continue until May; it’s a long journey ahead. I believe that once our players return and gain match fitness, they will significantly bolster our performance.

“This match against Celta is a crucial moment for us. We didn’t exhibit the fighting spirit required in our last game, and I hope to see a different attitude this time.”

Flick mentioned the notable absences of players such as Raphinha, Pedri, Gavi, and Joan García, all of whom will miss the Celta match. Defender Jules Koundé remains doubtful after missing training, while center-back Eric García is expected to be available despite breaking his nose in midweek, as he can play with a protective mask.

Barcelona needs a victory in Vigo to keep pace with LaLiga leaders Real Madrid, who currently hold a five-point advantage at the top of the table. Celta, on the other hand, seeks to extend their winning streak and break into the top half of the league.

“Celta is in fantastic form, having won their last four matches, which puts them in a better position than we are right now,” Flick commented. “However, success ultimately hinges on the attitude and mentality we bring to the game. We have discussed this internally, and it is imperative that we aim for a win. Securing three points before the international break is our priority this Sunday.”