Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has openly challenged his team to prove they can secure victories without 17-year-old star Lamine Yamal, who is sidelined for Saturday’s LaLiga match against Celta Vigo due to a sprained ankle.
Yamal’s absence also casts doubt on his availability for Tuesday’s Champions League fixture against Brest at the Olympic Stadium.
The Catalan giants have struggled in Yamal’s absence this season, losing both LaLiga games where he didn’t start—against Osasuna in September and Real Sociedad earlier this month.
These results have fueled speculation about the team’s reliance on the young forward.
“I will ask the team this [on Saturday],” Flick said during a pre-match press conference. “I think it’s a good question for them.”
Yamal’s Impact on Barcelona’s Season
Yamal has been a standout performer, contributing six goals and eight assists across all competitions this season.
His role on the right flank has been instrumental in helping Barcelona claim the top spot in LaLiga, where they currently sit six points ahead of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand.
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Despite the team’s reliance on the teenage sensation, Flick dismissed the notion that Yamal’s absence was solely to blame for the 1-0 defeat to Real Sociedad before the international break.
“Against Real Sociedad, we didn’t play very well, so that was the reason [for the loss], not Lamine not playing,” Flick clarified.
Replacing Yamal: Flick’s Options
Flick emphasized the need for adaptability in Yamal’s absence, pointing to alternatives such as Raphinha, Dani Olmo, Fermín López, Pablo Torre, and Pau Víctor to fill the gap on the right wing.
Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski, who have netted 31 goals collectively this season, are expected to step up and lead the attack.
Lewandowski, who has recovered from a back injury, praised Yamal’s exceptional talent.
“The first time I saw him at 15, I thought, ‘Wow, who is this?’ I’ve seen many young players, but Lamine is unique.”
“His challenge will be maintaining this level for the next 10 years.”
Injury Concerns and Squad Updates
In addition to Yamal, Barcelona will be without key players Marc-André ter Stegen, Ronald Araújo, Andreas Christensen, Marc Bernal, and Ansu Fati for the trip to Balaídos.
However, Araújo is expected to return to training on Sunday, offering some relief to Flick’s defensive woes. Eric García and Ferran Torres have rejoined training, bolstering the squad for the weekend.
Maintaining Momentum
Barcelona head into the clash against Celta Vigo as league leaders after 13 matches, determined to extend their lead and demonstrate resilience despite injury setbacks.
Flick’s challenge to his team could serve as a pivotal moment in their season, testing their depth and adaptability as they aim to maintain their dominance in LaLiga and beyond.
