Barcelona's Yamal Pain, Flick's Focus: Clasico Conversation Takes a Backseat

Match Preview and Yamal’s Update

Barcelona’s head coach, German tactician Hans Flick, says young star Lamine Yamal is feeling some discomfort but is steadily improving thanks to his hard work, and he does not want to discuss the Clasico from the past against Real Madrid.

According to AS, Flick spoke at a pre‑match press conference ahead of Barcelona’s La Liga clash with Elche at the Camp Nou, touching on injuries, the return of key players, and the future of several academy talents in the squad.

On the Elche match, Flick stated that he admires their style—a cohesive, organized unit—and that Barcelona must stick to their own game plan to pressure them. He was encouraged by the latest two training sessions and noted the returns of Dani Olmo and Lewandowski, despite Pedri’s absence.

Regarding Yamal’s fitness, Flick joked that the topic this week could be about Yamal every week, a light joke that underscores how often the conversation centers on the prodigy. He affirmed Yamal is fine overall, has spoken with him, and, although he sometimes experiences pains, his progress is clear.

On Pedri’s injury and its impact, Flick said the team was surprised by the injury after the Madrid game. Pedri had only fatigue initially, but tests revealed an injury. The loss of a player who controls possession and aids in regeneration is felt, and the hope is for a swift return.

Speaking about injuries in general, Flick reminded that November has begun and there is still a long season ahead, with opportunities for others to step up.

When asked about potential starting players for the Champions League, Flick explained that Dani García is training well and progressing, but there’s no need for pressure. For Lewandowski and Olmo, the plan is to assess how long they can play tomorrow before making a final call.

On managing Lamine Yamal, Flick said the approach is straightforward and honest. He intends to protect and guide the youngster, who is a delightful talent, and will continue to support his development.

Flick also commented on developing youth, noting that injuries can complicate plans but the focus remains on elevating everyone, especially the academy graduates, and ensuring Olmo and Lewandowski remain in top form through ongoing training and competition.

Asked about the young defender Koparci, Flick remarked on his age—18—and his rapid growth, stressing that he won’t be expected to reach the level of a 24-year-old instantly. Koparci has delivered solid performances in most matches over nearly two years, and Flick is pleased with his progress while acknowledging that the entire squad can still improve together.

Regarding the recent Clasico, Flick said he does not want to dwell on it and did not watch it from a favorable angle. He emphasized focusing on current challenges and learning from every game rather than reliving past results.

On potential future positions for Yamal, Flick explained that for now the best way to regain form is to play in his usual position, though in some scenarios he may drop deeper. Yamal’s versatility is a plus, but the priority remains ensuring he touches the ball and can produce moments of magic.

Flick also praised Elche and their goalkeeper Inaki Peña, stressing that Barcelona must deliver a big performance, as Elche play well and possess attractive football. The message is to show unity and give everything to secure the victory.

In closing, Flick commented on Yamal’s statements ahead of the Clasico, saying that the Real Madrid match belongs to the past and he has no desire to revisit it again.

Barcelona’s rising talents: injuries have disrupted the squad this season, prompting Flick to monitor the Barcelona Atlètic group for potential call-ups in the coming weeks.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the standout is an 18‑year‑old Espart who recently began training with the first team after coming through the academy. He’s joined by other promising youngsters such as 18‑year‑old Torrents and 17‑year‑olds Dro Fernandez, Toni Fernandez, and Jules Fernandez, with a few of them already featuring for the first team this season. Two young goalkeepers, Diego Koshin (19) and Eder Iyer (18), have also trained with the first team due to injuries to senior keepers, offering Flick an early glimpse into Barca’s future between the posts.

As the club navigates this busy period, Flick’s comments and the emergence of Barcelona’s youth signal a blend of veteran leadership and bright prospects for the seasons ahead.

Two light notes to end on: if Yamal keeps healing at this pace, the bench might start calling him the substitute who actually scores. And if Clasico talk is off-limits, maybe the headlines should just schedule a coffee break between every match. Punchline mode: engaged.