Barcelona coach Hansi Flick believes Lamine Yamal is steadily finding his way back to his best form after an encouraging start to the new season.
The teenage forward has faced intense scrutiny in recent weeks, with every performance and even his body language attracting attention. But Flick has moved to calm concerns surrounding one of Barcelona’s biggest stars, insisting there are clear signs that Yamal is moving in the right direction.
Yamal did not enjoy his strongest performance in Barcelona’s opening league match against Elche, where he appeared below the level supporters have come to expect from him. His display against Athletic Bilbao, however, offered a far more encouraging picture.
Although he did not get on the scoresheet, the youngster looked sharper and more involved as Barcelona secured a 2-0 victory. He remained a threat throughout the match and completed the full 90 minutes, another important step in his return to peak condition.
Flick believes that progress should not be overlooked.
The Barcelona manager knows better than most that expectations around Yamal have become enormous. At just 19, he is already one of the most closely watched players in world football, carrying responsibilities that many players do not face until much later in their careers.
But Flick has urged patience.
Yamal’s recent journey has not been straightforward. A hamstring injury earlier in the year interrupted his momentum, and his return to action was followed by a demanding international schedule and limited time away from football.
For Flick, that context matters.
The Barcelona coach has seen enough in training and in recent matches to believe that the winger is gradually rediscovering the rhythm, sharpness and confidence that make him such a special player.
Barcelona will now turn their attention to Monday’s La Liga clash against Rayo Vallecano, with Yamal expected to play another important role.
The Spanish champions have made a positive start to the campaign, winning their opening two league matches, and will be hoping to continue that momentum as the season begins to take shape.
For Yamal, the coming weeks could be equally important.
The expectation surrounding him will not disappear. Every missed chance will be analysed, every quiet match discussed and every moment away from his spectacular best questioned. That is now part of life for a player of his profile.
Yet Flick’s message is clear: there is no need for panic.
Yamal may not have reached his highest level yet, but Barcelona’s coach believes he is getting closer.
And for opponents across Spain and Europe, that will be an uncomfortable thought.
A fully fit and confident Lamine Yamal remains one of the most dangerous young players in the game. If Flick is right and the teenager is now beginning to rediscover his best form, Barcelona could soon have one of their biggest attacking weapons operating at full power again.