Barcelona expect Lamine Yamal’s breakthrough to arrive despite early-season concerns

Barcelona remain convinced that Lamine Yamal’s best form is close, despite the winger failing to score this season and producing another performance below his usual standards after recovering from a headache.

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, the coaching staff, club hierarchy and dressing room are not concerned by Yamal’s lack of goals. Nor do they regard his frustration at being substituted against Elche as evidence of a decline in confidence or morale. The teenager has shown similar reactions in previous seasons, and his behaviour is not viewed as unusual within the club.

Barcelona’s belief in their 2026-27 campaign remains strong, with those around the club convinced that the “explosion” of the talent developed in Rocafonda is only a matter of time. They also believe Yamal is already making a significant impact through his movement and overall contribution, even if his performances have not yet produced a goal.

Head coach Hansi Flick has acknowledged that Yamal is not yet at his peak, but he has defended the forward emphatically. After the opening match of the season, Flick said: “He was suffering from some headaches, but he is a genius.”

The German added: “He had three weeks off and has only played for a few days now. He was not at his best against Elche, and we have to try to get him back to full fitness as soon as possible.”

Flick also praised Yamal’s contribution during his 60 minutes at the Martinez Valero stadium, saying: “I am happy that he played 60 minutes and contributed to the first two goals. He gave us options for substitutions. He contributed a lot to the game, he is working hard, he is improving, we need him, he is an incredible player.”

The confidence inside Barcelona is also based on Yamal’s display against Athletic Club, when he repeatedly escaped the pressure applied by the Basque side’s defenders. He attempted to unsettle them from both inside and outside positions, tested their defensive strength on several occasions and came extremely close to scoring.

In the first half, Yamal forced Spain international goalkeeper Unai Simon, who was named player of the match, into two excellent saves. The Barcelona forward then came even closer after striking the post in the second half, denying him his first goal of the campaign.

That sequence of chances has reinforced the view at Barcelona that Yamal’s current statistics do not reflect his actual influence. While the winger has yet to find the net, the club believes his movement, dribbling and ability to create danger remain clear signs of his quality.

There is therefore no sense of alarm at Barcelona over the 2026-27 start. Instead, the club retains complete faith in one of the brightest products of La Masia and expects Yamal’s performances to develop into the decisive output that has made him such a central figure in the team.