Barcelona Coach Hansi Flick Discusses Lamine Yamal’s Progress and Team’s Challenges

**BARCELONA, Spain** — Barcelona’s head coach Hansi Flick has noted that Lamine Yamal has adopted a more disciplined approach to manage an ongoing groin issue.

At just 18 years old, Yamal has missed seven matches for both club and country this season due to a persistent pubalgia, which causes chronic pain in the groin area. However, he has successfully started in the last five matches for Barça as he continues to navigate this issue.

Signs of Yamal’s return to form were evident during Wednesday’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League, where he scored one goal and provided an assist. Flick credits Yamal’s recent success to his heightened attention to training and rehabilitation processes.

“We have to take care of him,” Flick remarked at a press conference ahead of Sunday’s encounter with Celta Vigo in La Liga.

“For me, he has changed his discipline significantly. He is training exceptionally well and is committed to his daily treatments in the gym. It is crucial for his recovery that he adheres to this regimen. I believe he is on the path back to his best form, but we must remain cautious as the injury is not completely resolved.”

Despite the challenges, Yamal has managed to contribute five goals and five assists in his ten appearances for Barça this season. Following Sunday’s match in Vigo, he will join the Spanish national team, where his groin issues first began, leading to previous tensions between club and country. Flick expressed hope that the national team will be judicious with Yamal’s playing time as they strive to secure their spot in next summer’s World Cup.

“We must take care of him, not only as a club but also the national team,” Flick emphasized.

Yamal’s resurgence on the pitch could be pivotal for Barça, who have won only three of their last seven matches across all competitions. Flick attributed their recent draw against Brugge to a lack of fight, stating that he expects significantly more from his players as they face a formidable Celta side this weekend.

“It is essential to note that we are dealing with numerous injuries to key players, which has affected our performances,” he explained. “Although it is now November, we must maintain our focus until May. We all recognize the need to improve our game; once our players return, we believe they will be able to help us significantly.”

While Flick referenced the absences of key players such as Raphinha, Pedri, Gavi, and Joan García, he indicated that defender Jules Koundé remains a doubt after missing training, whereas center-back Eric García will be available despite sustaining a broken nose, as he can use a protective mask.

To stay competitive with La Liga leaders Real Madrid, who hold a five-point advantage, Barça must secure a win against Celta. Meanwhile, Celta aims to build on their recent form and break into the top half of the table.

“Currently, Celta is riding a wave of success, having won their last four games, which puts them in a more favorable position than we are in,” Flick acknowledged. “However, it ultimately comes down to our attitude and mentality. We want to emerge victorious in this match, especially before heading into the international break with three additional points. That is our goal for Sunday.”