Barcelona boss backs winger to claim the Ballon d’Or award next year
Hansi Flick has praised Lamine Yamal after the winger marked his return from injury with a decisive contribution in Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Real Sociedad at Montjuic.
Introduced just before the hour, Yamal needed only seconds to influence the game. The 18-year-old skipped past his marker and delivered a tantalising cross that Robert Lewandowski headed in for the winner.
It ensured Barcelona overturned Alvaro Odriozola’s opener after Jules Kounde had drawn them level with a thumping header from a Marcus Rashford corner kick before half-time.
“I am happy to have him back, we all are,” said Flick. “He showed directly the outstanding strength he has, to create chances, to give the last pass. It’s good to have him back.”
The match came days after Yamal was named the world’s best player under 21 for a second year running, and finished runner-up to Ousmane Dembele for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. Flick backed the teenager to claim the award soon.
“Dembele winning the award is a decision we cannot change, but Lamine has another chance next year,” said Flick.
“He will try to get it. For every player, it’s a big thing, to be one of these guys who can win the award. And of course we have a lot of players in this team who can win it.”
