Flick praises Yamal’s response as Barcelona weigh defensive signing

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick says the club could pursue a centre-back in the January transfer window, while praising Lamine Yamal’s reaction after missing out in the Ballon d’Or voting.

Barcelona’s winning run this season has been halted by defeats by Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid. They face Deportivo Alaves on Saturday, 31 October 2026, in the 11th round of La Liga.

Asked whether Barcelona would strengthen in defence, Flick said: “I spoke about this when the transfer window was open, and I said that we are always looking for what is best for the team and how we can improve it.”

He added: “We will see what happens. We still have a few weeks before the winter transfer window opens. We speak every day about many things with Deco, Bojan and members of my coaching staff. If we can do something, maybe we will.”

Flick was also questioned about Barcelona’s defensive vulnerability following the recent defeat by Real Madrid.

“In the end, defending is not the responsibility of the back line alone,” he said. “The striker also takes part in the defensive process. Everyone is responsible for that.”

The manager said Barcelona must improve their decision-making when in possession and their marking inside the penalty area.

“First of all, we must not lose the ball so easily,” he said. “We lost some balls against Real Madrid, and that is not good. It happens to us too often, and we have to play with more intelligence and concentration.”

He continued: “When we defend inside the penalty area, it is also important to watch the opponents properly, and we did not do that either. We have to improve these aspects. We work on them in training, keep them in mind and discuss them with the players.”

Flick was then asked about Yamal’s failure to win the Ballon d’Or. He said Harry Kane was also a deserving winner, while reiterating his belief that the Barcelona forward is capable of claiming the award.

“Harry Kane deserved to win it too,” said Flick. “You know my opinion about Lamine. I believe he has the level to win this award. I have told him that, and I have told the team as well.”

Flick also said Pau Cubarsi merited the Kopa Trophy after “an exceptional season and a wonderful World Cup”.

However, he was particularly pleased with Yamal’s response to the outcome.

“What I see and feel is that I am extremely proud of Yamal,” he said. “His reaction was good, and in training I can see that he has great focus. That is how champions behave, and I am very happy that he is taking this approach and has this mentality.”

He concluded: “We accept it, and I am pleased that this matter is over so we can focus on things that are very important to us.”