Lamine Yamal’s workload worries Barcelona

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick confirmed that Lamine Yamal will not be available for Sunday’s match against Valencia and is doubtful for Thursday’s Champions League game against Newcastle due to pubic discomfort. The German manager expressed his frustration with Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, blaming his decisions for overworking the young winger.

“He’s not available. He went to the national team already with pain and they gave him painkillers to play. He played more than 70 minutes in each match, even when they had a three-goal lead. That’s not taking care of the players,” said Flick, visibly upset with how the teenager was managed.

Lamine Yamal featured for 79 minutes against Bulgaria and 73 against Turkey in World Cup qualifiers on September 4 and 7, adding to his full participation in all of Barcelona’s official games this season. The situation has raised concerns about his physical condition at such a young age.

Squad updates and concerns

Beyond Yamal’s absence, Flick confirmed that Frenkie de Jong remains sidelined with injury. However, he celebrated the return of midfielder Marc Bernal, who is set to make the bench after a year out with a serious knee injury.

On Gavi, the coach was cautious: “He’s the heart of the team, his mentality on the pitch is incredible. But after such a serious injury, we don’t want to rush him. He needs to come back in full form, with confidence in his body,” explained the German.

On a brighter note, Flick stated that Raphinha and Ronald Araújo are fit and available after international duty. He also praised Valencia coach Carlos Corberán for his work: “He stabilized the team last season and has interesting players. It’s a strong side.”

Mentality and objectives

Looking ahead to Sunday’s game at the Johan Cruyff Stadium, Flick made it clear that the team must stay focused despite playing in a smaller venue: “We know the club’s situation. The president explains everything to me and I trust him. Tomorrow there are no excuses. We have to focus on ourselves and winning. It’s all about mentality.”

The German coach also reiterated a message he delivered after the draw against Rayo Vallecano: “Egos kill success. Everyone has to give 100%. That’s how we won titles last season, and we need to get back to that.”