'I Will Always Protect Him!': Flick Backs Wunderkind Amid Growing Concerns

Last Updated:November 01, 2025, 18:52 IST

Yama stirred controversy with his comments on Real Madrid in a podcast in the lead-up to the top-billed event which irked the Madrid players and fans.

Hansi Flick (AP)

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick vowed to protect wunderkind Lamine Yamal following recent criticism as the 18-year-old winger struggled to make an impact in the El Clasico as Barca succumbed to Real Madrid and trails the Capital City club by five points.

Yama stirred controversy with his comments on Real Madrid in a podcast in the lead-up to the top-billed event which irked the Madrid players and fans.

“We speak with him… we are very honest together, he with me and I with him, and this is the best way," Flick said.

“I will always protect him and support him. He’s a fantastic player, fantastic guy, he’s very young, and we will continue this way."

Yamal has been struggling with a groin injury for a few weeks and could not make an impact on the fixture.

“Lamine is good. I just spoke with him, and he’s doing well," Flick continued.

“Of course, he has some days where he feels some pain, but now he really works hard and has improved a lot in these aspects. He’s on a good path, and that’s what we can say."

The German coach mentioned that Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo were available again after injury, while Barca is still missing Pedri Gonzalez, Gavi, and Joan Garcia, among others.

Flick revealed that Dani Olmo, Robert Lewandowski are fit for their upcoming fixture after Elche during the weekend.

“What I can see now with Dani and also with Lewy back, the last two training sessions were very good," added Flick.

“It’s not just that they increase the level and quality, but the others are also raising their level, including the young players. It’s nice to see, and hopefully, we can show it tomorrow."

The Catalans are set to host Elche at the Olympic Stadium. Elche, newly promoted this season, is managed by Eder Sarabia, a former assistant coach at Barca under Quique Setien. Elche currently sits mid-table after a strong start to the season, with only two defeats so far. Flick has praised their performance, noting that they play fantastic football.

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