Lamine Yamal left ‘hurt’ by Barcelona over futures of close team-mates as Spanish media question his mood after being substituted off – but boss Hansi Flick insists his ‘attitude’ is ‘normal’
Lamine Yamal’s happiness is the subject of debate among some Spanish media following his body language in Barcelona’s 5-0 win at Elche.
Barca got their LaLiga defence off to a roaring start on Sunday – with Yamal playing 65 minutes in that victory.
As he came off the pitch he appeared to be unhappy at his substitution.
On Spanish TV sports show El Chiringuito, presenter Josep Pedrerol revealed: ‘I was told at the club that they would ask him about it directly tomorrow, as they had received pictures they hadn’t seen before, and they would ask him if everything was alright.’
However, Jota Jordi believes that Yamal’s perceived unhappiness is due to the possibility of losing three close allies at the club this summer.
It has been reported that Alejandro Balde, Marc Casado and Hector Fort could all be sold by Barca this summer – with the trio having come up through the ranks at the club with Yamal.
Lamine Yamal’s mood is being debated about in Spain with him reportedly ‘hurt’ by Barcelona
Alejandro Balde (left) is a close friend of Yamal’s but could be leaving Barca this summer
Balde has been linked with a move to Manchester United and Jordi says all three players are extremely close with Yamal, stating: ‘They’re like brothers to him, and I’ve been told that it hurts Lamine.’
Despite the uncertainty over Yamal’s apparent mood, Barca boss Hansi Flick dispelled any issues ahead of Thursday’s clash with Athletic Bilbao.
‘He had a minor issue, a headache. Lamine is a genius, it’s understandable. He’s had three weeks off and has only trained a few days. It’s normal that he’s not at his peak,’ he told reporters about why he made the substitution at the weekend.
‘We need to find a solution so he can get back to his best, but I really value his 60 minutes. He pressed very well on the first goal and on the second he passed the ball to Raphinha. He gives us more options. He helped us a lot and he’s doing well. We’ll see how he progresses, but we need him because he’s exceptional.’
Speaking further, he said it’s normal for the 19-year-old to be unhappy when substituted as he wants to play all the time.
‘It’s normal that he wants to play. When you’re a true champion, you always strive to win the next title,’ he added.
‘That’s his attitude. Every player on the team is hungry to win a third consecutive league title. We’re ready and we’ll fight for it.’