**Lamine Yamal Getting Back to ‘Top Level,’ Barcelona Coach Hansi Flick Says**
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has expressed optimism about the recovery of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, indicating that the young winger is on his way back to his “top level” ahead of the upcoming La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano on Monday. This statement comes after Yamal's mixed performances in the early part of the season.
The 19-year-old Yamal, who was named La Liga Player of the Year last season, faced challenges during Barcelona's opening match against Elche, where he struggled to make an impact. However, his performance improved in the subsequent match against Athletic Bilbao, even though he did not score.
Flick addressed the media on Sunday, acknowledging the concerns surrounding Yamal’s form. “I know everyone is worried about how Lamine is doing. And of course, look at his situation – he played a World Cup after a huge injury,” he stated. Yamal had been recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in April, which limited his contributions during the World Cup, despite Spain's overall success in the tournament.
The coach noted that Yamal is gradually regaining his form following a three-week holiday. “The first game maybe was not his best game, but I was very happy that he started and worked for the team,” Flick remarked. He highlighted Yamal's performance against Athletic Bilbao, where he played the full 90 minutes, indicating that this experience was beneficial for the young player.
Flick pointed out that Yamal showed glimpses of his top-level abilities during training, stating, “We saw him in some situations really at this top level. And now, you couldn’t see this in the training today, but I saw it, and it was excellent.” He emphasized the importance of support for Yamal during this period of adjustment, saying, “Everyone loves Lamine, and he’s in a good way. And we have to support him, and we do that.”
Following the match against Elche, Yamal appeared to be in a low mood, but Flick noted a change in his demeanor during training sessions leading up to the clash with Rayo Vallecano. “Of course, it’s always good when the players are smiling, but it’s not every day the same way,” he added, acknowledging the ups and downs that players experience.
Barcelona has had a strong start to the season, winning both of their opening fixtures, with Raphinha stepping up as a makeshift number nine in the absence of a new striker. Flick commented on the team's current situation, expressing satisfaction with the squad he has at his disposal. “Of course, I’m happy with my team. [Sporting director] Deco is working on that to strengthen the team. We don’t have pressure,” he said, indicating that he is content with the players available if no new signings are made.
As the team prepares for the match against Rayo Vallecano, all eyes will be on Yamal to see if he can continue his upward trajectory and return to the form that earned him accolades last season.