Hansi Flick and Barcelona began their Champions League campaign with a 2–1 win against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. The result was positive, but the absence of Lamine Yamal remained a key talking point. The teenage star missed the match because of pubic bone discomfort, an injury made worse during international duty with Spain.
Yamal was not in Flick’s squad after also missing Barcelona’s recent 6–0 victory over Valencia in La Liga. His recovery is ongoing, with no fixed return date.
The situation goes beyond one game. Reports say Spain’s medical staff gave Yamal painkiller injections so he could play in World Cup qualifiers against Bulgaria and Turkey. Despite not training between matches, he played more than 70 minutes in both games. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick was angry with how the Spanish federation handled his player.
“They gave him painkillers to play. He went with the national team in pain and did not train,” Flick told reporters.
Hansi Flick added that Yamal should never have been risked in those circumstances.
“They had at least a three-goal lead in every match, and he played 73 minutes and 79,” the coach said. “Between matches, he couldn’t train. That is not taking care of the player. I am very sad about this.”
Barcelona president Joan Laporta backed his manager’s stance. Speaking before the Newcastle game, Laporta defended Flick’s comments about the Spanish federation.
“Our coach has already said everything he had to say, and he is absolutely right,” Laporta explained.
Hansi Flick’s comments on Lamine Yamal’s return
Hansi Flick later confirmed the winger is unlikely to play this coming weekend either.
“I don’t think we should put pressure on him. We have a fantastic medical staff. We’ll see how he progresses. If he comes back, it’s to be at one hundred percent”.
His words show unity at the club and also reflect growing frustration with how international teams use their players. The conflict between clubs and federations over workload is once again in the spotlight.
Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste was more cautious. Asked about Yamal’s situation, he chose not to comment directly.
“This is a topic that Deco deals with directly, and I have nothing to say. Wishing Lamine a speedy recovery,” he said. Yuste instead focused on the Champions League. “This hunger must be turned into a dream. All the culés and the players too know that the Champions League is the most important title.”
Even without Yamal, Barcelona managed the win in England. Goals from Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha secured three points for Flick’s side. The performance was efficient and underlined that Barcelona can compete even without their youngest star. Still, Yamal’s absence was felt, especially as he has been a key figure in attack. His return is vital for the long season ahead.
Barcelona is going to take care of Lamine Yamal
Yamal has already shown his importance. In the 2024–25 campaign, he scored 18 goals and registered 21 assists, helping Barcelona win La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España. He also won the Kopa Trophy and Golden Boy award in 2024. This season, before the injury, he had two goals and two assists in three La Liga matches. At just 18, his influence is undeniable.
Hansi Flick continues to stress patience. Barcelona want to avoid any long-term risk, ensuring that Yamal recovers fully before stepping back onto the pitch. Laporta also underlined this priority, saying:
“We must take care of our players.”
The debate over Yamal’s minutes with Spain highlights a bigger problem in football. Clubs and national teams often disagree about how to manage young players, especially when schedules are tight. Spain’s choice to play Yamal despite discomfort has frustrated Barcelona. With Laporta backing Hansi Flick, the club may now take a stronger stance in future. Protecting their brightest talent is seen as a priority.
For Barcelona, the three points against Newcastle bring relief and momentum. Yet the focus remains on Yamal’s recovery. He is one of the most promising players in Europe, and his development cannot be rushed. As Laporta and Flick made clear, the goal is to have him back fully fit, not half-ready. With many games still to come, Barcelona know his return could shape their season.
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