Barcelona Coach Flick Advises Teen Star Yamal To Prioritize Hard Work

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has praised teenage superstar Lamine Yamal as a genius and emphasized the importance of hard work and mental preparation for the young talent to sustain a high-level career over the next 15 years. Flick has urged Yamal to follow the example of teammate Raphinha, who has demonstrated significant commitment and confidence, contributing 59 direct goal involvements last season after overcoming a challenging period at the club. Flick highlighted Raphinha's qualities such as heart, mentality, defensive work, and attitude, noting that these traits are essential for players with great talent like Yamal to develop further. Alongside Yamal and Raphinha, Pedri was also praised as a brilliant player and potential future leader of the team. Despite the team narrowly missing out on a perfect season due to a Champions League semifinal loss, Flick's focus remains on continual progression rather than perfection, aiming to help the players perform at their best to compete for major trophies like La Liga and the Champions League. Yamal, currently enjoying a holiday in Brazil with Neymar, is encouraged by Flick not to become complacent and to maintain his focus on growth and preparation.