Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has dismissed claims that his team are overly reliant on teenage star Lamine Yamal, warning his players not to let “egos kill success” after their first dropped points of the new La Liga season.
The Catalan giants were held to a 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano, despite taking the lead through Yamal, who won and converted a penalty in the first half. The 18-year-old talent has now delivered two goals and two assists in just three La Liga games, but Flick is adamant the squad must operate as a collective.
“We cannot depend on one player, no matter how talented. The team must play as one unit,” Flick said post-match.
The result leaves Barcelona fourth in La Liga with seven points from three games, while rivals Real Madrid top the table with a perfect record heading into the international break.
With the transfer window now closed, Flick has urged his squad to return from international duty with renewed focus:
“Egos must not get in the way. Success comes from teamwork, not individuals.”
Barcelona will be back in action on September 14 against Valencia, with fans celebrating the news that the Camp Nou has been cleared for use in the clash.
