Flick withdraws Yamal to protect Barcelona star’s Clasico hopes

Lamine Yamal was substituted by Barcelona manager Hansi Flick after becoming involved in an incident with Facundo Bernal during the 5-2 win over Real Betis, with the winger at risk of missing next Sunday’s meeting with Real Madrid.

The decision was Flick’s third substitution of Yamal this season. Raphinha also urged his team-mate to leave the pitch quickly, as Barcelona sought to avoid the possibility of the Spain international receiving a second yellow card and being suspended for the Clasico.

According to AS, Flick acted because Yamal was already in danger of being sent off and Barcelona’s next match against Real Madrid is considered particularly important.

The incident began after Abde Ezzalzouli scored Betis’ second goal. Yamal went to check on Fermin Lopez, who had fallen following an aerial challenge with an opponent.

Alvaro Paiz attempted to help Fermin back to his feet, but Yamal moved him away. Bernal then intervened and pushed the Barcelona player, who responded with a stronger shove.

Yamal appeared to recognise the danger of the confrontation and raised his hands. Bernal continued to escalate the situation, however, delivering two headbutts in a scene that could have developed into a more serious altercation. Yamal was already vulnerable to dismissal at that stage.

Flick did not wait long before taking him off, removing the risk of allowing the situation to worsen while Yamal remained on the pitch. Raphinha made sure his team-mate left without delay.

The confrontation was another occasion this season when Yamal displayed visible frustration during a match, despite often appearing calm on the field. It recalled an incident against Sevilla around a month ago, when supporters objected to an action they viewed as showboating.

That episode followed Yamal’s celebration after scoring Barcelona’s opening goal, which angered the Betis fans. The goal itself attracted considerable attention for its quality and was another addition to the winger’s collection of impressive finishes.

Yamal responded to the reaction with an influential performance. He created several dangerous opportunities, supplied a fine pass for Karim Adeyemi and played a part in the third goal, scored by Gabriel Jesus.

The 5-2 victory took Yamal’s season total to nine goals and 10 assists. He continues to underline his status among the world’s leading players, but his moment of anger against Betis could have carried a significant cost with the Clasico against Real Madrid only days away.