Hansi Flick has again defended Lamine Yamal over a substitution strop.
Lamine continued a trend from last season of reacting badly to being taken off, doing so in a 5-0 win over Elche.
Flick has been a staunch defender of his star No.10, continually defending the theatrics even when directed straight at him.
And for the 2026/27 season things are no different.
Flick comments on Lamine’s substitution
“He had a minor problem, he had a headache,” Flick explained.
“Lamine is a genius, that’s normal. He’s had three weeks of vacation and has only trained for a few days.
“We need to find a solution so he can reach his best level, but I really value his 60 minutes.
“We’ll see how he develops, but we need him because he’s exceptional.”
Given the number of incidents, former Barcelona player Jose Mari Bakero thinks it’s time to draw a line.
Lamine Yamal’s latest sulk gets slammed
“I’m going to be ruthless this year regarding substitutions,” he said in an interview.
“I won’t accept players being so selfish. Not a single one. It’s disrespectful to their teammates.
“I’m talking about Lamine and anyone who complains when they’re substituted.
“It’s one thing to get angry when you’re playing in a Copa del Rey or Champions League final, that’s normal.
“But the first league match, you’re coming back from the World Cup, all your teammates have done preseason training and you haven’t…
“I’m not going to get into whether he plays well or badly. Look, respect the coach and your teammates.
“The players have to understand that they’re there to do what the coach asks of them.”
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