‘It’s normal’ – Flick plays down Lamine Yamal anger after Barcelona win over Levante

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick refused to escalate concerns around Lamine Yamal’s visible displeasure after being substituted during his side’s 3-0 La Liga victory over Levante at the Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday.

The teenager’s reaction – a frustrated walk to the bench late in the game – quickly became the post-match talking point, but Flick publicly downplayed any suggestion of a rift, stressing the broader context of the club’s performance and squad balance.

Player reactions under the microscope

Yamal, one of Barcelona’s most electrifying young talents, was taken off in the final minutes with his team comfortably ahead.

The 18-year-old Spain international of Moroccan descent had provided the assist for Fermin Lopez’s late goal but appeared unhappy with the decision to withdraw him before the final whistle.

For many observers, the gesture reflected the competitive intensity that has marked his breakout season.

At his post-match press briefing, Flick dismissed any suggestion that Yamal’s response was problematic. He characterised the reaction as a natural expression of a competitor’s desire to contribute and reiterated his support for the player’s development within the squad.

The coach emphasised that such moments are part of elite sport and not necessarily indicative of deeper tension. “It’s human to be disappointed when you’re substituted, especially at a club like Barcelona with the standards we have,” Flick said, underlining his broader perspective on squad dynamics.

Balancing minutes and squad integrity

Flick also highlighted his broader managerial priorities as Barcelona navigate a demanding schedule across domestic and European competitions.

With no midweek fixture scheduled, the coach said rest and rotation have become important considerations for protecting young talent like Yamal from fatigue and burnout.

By bringing on Roony Bardghji in the dying minutes, Flick signalled his intent to distribute minutes and maintain sharpness across the roster.

The German tactician resisted framing Yamal’s reaction as a disciplinary matter, instead framing it as a reflection of the player’s ambition — something he values.

“We have players who deserve to play, and when they come on, I want positive contributions,” Flick added, stressing that the club’s collective objectives outweigh isolated moments of individual frustration.

Youth shining as Barca retake La Liga summit

Beyond the substitution narrative, Barcelona’s dominant performance against Levante saw goals from Marc Bernal, Frenkie de Jong and Fermin Lopez, securing three points that lifted Barca back to the top of the La Liga table.

Flick also praised Bernal’s influence in midfield, describing the academy graduate as part of the club’s future core.