Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has assured fans that Lamine Yamal’s early substitution in the 4-0 Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund was not due to injury.
The 17-year-old wonderkid, who scored Barcelona’s fourth goal in the 77th minute, requested to be substituted in the 86th minute after an impressive performance.
Flick stated that Yamal’s substitution was purely precautionary, highlighting the importance of managing his minutes given his heavy involvement this season.
“Lamine is fine,” he explained. “He had played too many minutes, so it was good that Ansu was able to play. It’s important for him to get minutes. He’s training very well and deserved to play.”
Yamal, whose African heritage comes from his Moroccan father and Equatorial Guinean mother, has been a standout performer this season.
He has made ten appearances in the Champions League and contributed four goals and 3 assists.
His excellent form has also been reflected in his performances in domestic competitions, where he has continued to build on his growing reputation.
Yamal has emerged as one of Barcelona’s key players this term, being key to their quest for a treble this season.
