FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick spoke this Saturday about the physical condition of Lamine Yamal, sidelined with pubic discomfort, and made it clear that his return will not be immediate. The German manager called for patience, stressing that the young forward “needs more time” before getting back on the pitch.

Key absences against Getafe

The 17-year-old attacker missed the recent matches against Valencia and Newcastle, and he will also be unavailable this Sunday against Getafe at the Estadi Johan Cruyff. Flick explained that the recovery process is gradual and being taken “day by day.”

Alongside the absences of Yamal and Gavi—whose short-term future depends on whether he undergoes surgery for his knee problems—left-back Alejandro Balde also remains sidelined as he recovers from a muscle injury. In addition, Pau Cubarsí is a doubt after feeling discomfort in his knee during the last training session.

The German coach admitted the need for “fresh legs” following the effort at St. James’ Park, where Barça earned a 1-2 win over Newcastle in the Champions League.

Confidence in Rashford and an eye on the Ballon d’Or

Flick also expressed his satisfaction with the performances of Marcus Rashford, the club’s marquee summer signing, who delivered a decisive brace in England. “I firmly believe in his quality, but he needs to work hard and keep learning. I will continue pushing him and supporting him,” the coach stated.

On Monday, after the match against Getafe, Flick will be part of the Barça delegation attending the Ballon d’Or gala in Paris, where Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Pedri, and Robert Lewandowski are all nominated. Flick added that “one day we’ll see Lamine win the Ballon d’Or” and emphasized that simply being among the nominees is already recognition of the team’s level.

A Barça still under construction

The German manager stressed that “all players are important” and that the priority is to maintain competitiveness in every match. With a packed schedule and several key injuries, Flick knows the immediate challenge is to sustain the level shown in the Champions League and carry it over to LaLiga.

The return of Lamine Yamal remains the big question mark. In the meantime, Flick trusts in the squad’s depth and the group’s ability to keep the positive run going.