Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has responded to head coach Hansi Flick’s criticism that “egos” are hurting the Blaugrana, insisting the 1–1 draw with Rayo Vallecano was down to a lack of intensity rather than selfishness in the squad.
Flick was visibly frustrated after the stalemate in Vallecas, warning his players that putting personal glory ahead of the team could “kill success.”
However, Yamal dismissed that theory in a candid interview with RTVE, stressing that Barcelona’s slow start is more about rhythm than dressing room issues.
“I think it has more to do with the fact that we didn’t start the season with the intensity we had at the end of the last one, rather than egos in the dressing room,” Yamal explained. “After a draw, you’re always in a bad mood, but in the end, you just have to win.”
The 18-year-old, who scored a penalty against Rayo and already has two goals and two assists in three La Liga matches, remains one of Barca’s brightest sparks.
Yamal shrugs off off-field criticism
The teenager has also been under the spotlight for off-field matters, including his 18th birthday celebration and his personal life, but insists none of it distracts him.
“Lately there’s been more talk about what I do off the pitch than on it. If I were playing for Mataró, my birthday party wouldn’t even matter. I’ve realised much of it is made up, so I don’t care. I only listen to my circle – the people who truly know me,” Yamal said.
The Spain international added that his mentality has been key to his rise:
“You’ll never see me sad or happy because of something others say. I keep walking my path with the same mindset that brought me here.”
Pressure building ahead of Valencia clash
Barcelona’s upcoming La Liga showdown with Valencia now looms large as a test of both Flick’s authority and Yamal’s leadership. Another slip-up could raise fresh questions about whether the squad can recapture last season’s intensity and whether Flick can truly command respect in a dressing room packed with both emerging stars and seasoned veterans.
