FC Barcelona’s 3-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge left several talking points, but one spotlight fell directly on Lamine Yamal. The young Barça winger endured one of his toughest Champions League nights, completely shut down by Marc Cucurella, and his reaction after being substituted fueled media debate. With the noise growing, Hansi Flick stepped in to clarify the situation and defend his player.

The German coach acknowledged the level of the Chelsea full-back, calling him “one of the best in the world,” but also delivered a clear message to his young star: it’s time to lift his head and respond.

Flick Protects Yamal but Demands He Steps Up

In his press conference, Flick aimed to ease pressure on the teenager: “Lamine is fine. Many players don’t react in the best way when you take them off. It happened to me as well.”

However, he added that the upcoming match against Deportivo Alavés is an opportunity for the winger to show character: “Now it’s his turn to take a step forward and leave the game against Chelsea behind.”

The coach also praised Cucurella’s outstanding performance, as the La Masía-trained full-back completely nullified Yamal and played a decisive role in Ronald Araujo’s red card. He became the wall that blocked every Barça attempt in London.

The defeat dropped Barcelona to 18th place in the Champions League league phase standings, forcing them to react quickly to avoid compromising their path to the knockout rounds. But first, LaLiga awaits.

Barça Seek an Immediate Response Against Alavés

The Catalan side return to the Spotify Camp Nou needing to maintain their strong league form, having won their last three matches against Elche, Celta, and Athletic Club. A victory over Alavés would allow Flick’s team to temporarily climb to the top of the table and put pressure on Real Madrid, who visit Montilivi.

Injuries continue to complicate matters: Araujo is ruled out due to a stomach virus, while Fermín López will miss two weeks with a soleus injury. In defense, Christensen could partner Pau Cubarsí if Eric García once again features as a holding midfielder alongside Frenkie de Jong.

The good news comes with Pedri, fully recovered from his muscular injury and ready to return, although starting from the bench. Raphinha has also regained rhythm after recent appearances against Athletic and Chelsea and is expected to start.

Facing them is a Deportivo Alavés side that struggles away from Mendizorroza, with just one away win this season. Eduardo Coudet is expected to repeat his defensive structure, relying on Lucas Boyé and Toni Martínez as attacking references. The Basque side, winless against Barça since 2016, aim to break a run of two straight defeats.

With Champions League pressure still lingering and the LaLiga lead at stake, Barça need an immediate reaction. And in that context, Flick wants to see Lamine Yamal grow.