Sports
Flick Commends Yamal’s Resilience After Ballon d’Or Result
By AFP
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said on Friday that 19‑year‑old winger Lamine Yamal had "reacted very well" after the Ballon d’Or was awarded to Harry Kane. Yamal finished third in the vote, behind Kane and Kylian Mbappé, despite winning La Liga with Barcelona and the World Cup with Spain. Flick added that Yamal is "at the level required to win this award" and praised his focus in training and his mentality for the team.
Yamal will have a chance to move past the disappointment when Barcelona face Alavés at home on Saturday, following two recent high‑profile defeats. The club had won its first 11 matches in all competitions but then lost 4‑2 to PSG in the Champions League and 2‑1 to Real Madrid in La Liga.
"The most important thing tomorrow is to win," Flick said. "The team is playing well and we believe in our strengths. I’ve seen a good training session and a positive mood. We have to show that tomorrow. Alavés are a team that know how to defend well, but we’re Barca and we want to show our best version."
Barcelona still lead La Liga by two points ahead of Atlético Madrid. Flick noted that the campaign is a "long road" and that the end of the season is when trophies can be won, adding that the team must accept defeat and learn from it.
Frequently asked questions
What position did Lamine Yamal finish in the Ballon d'Or voting?
He finished third, behind Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé.
What did Hansi Flick say about Yamal's performance?
Flick said Yamal reacted very well after the Ballon d’Or result, praised his focus in training and his mentality, and said he is at the level required to win the award.
What is Barcelona's upcoming match?
Barcelona will face Alavés at home on Saturday.