Flick Backs Yamal for Ballon d'Or
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick praised young star Lamine Yamal, asserting he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or after his impressive performance in the team's 5-1 victory over Dutch side Feyenoord in their UEFA Champions League opener.
Yamal contributed two assists and scored a direct free-kick, bringing his total goal contributions in the Champions League to 21, including 11 goals and 10 assists. He has set the record for the most goal contributions by a player under 20 in the tournament's history, surpassing the previous record held by Frenchman Kylian Mbappé, who had 20 contributions.
At just 19 years and 58 days old, Yamal became the youngest player to score from a direct free-kick for a Spanish team in the Champions League, breaking previous records held by Arda Güler and Sergio Agüero.
Flick said after the match: “Of course, he is my player and a player for Barcelona. He deserves to win the Ballon d'Or, and he shows in every match that he is a standout player. No one has what he has, and I believe he deserves it.”
Barcelona captain Raphinha also praised his young teammate, noting that he tried to keep him focused and motivated during the match, expressing his happiness for Yamal's goal that they needed.
Barcelona has made a strong start to the season, scoring 22 goals in their first five matches, sending an early message about their capability to compete fiercely for the Champions League title for the first time since 2015.
Flick expressed satisfaction with the constant pressure his team applies; however, he emphasized the need for continued development, stating that the season is still long and that the team trains hard, with all players looking to improve, stressing that strength and sharpness are essential to achieve the team's philosophy.
