Manager says he is working with Ferran Torres and backs the striker to turn his form around
Barcelona forward Ferran Torres “lacks confidence” and has endured “bad luck” but can still live up to his potential, according to manager Hansi Flick.
The Catalans strengthened their grip on top spot in La Liga on Saturday with a narrow victory over Athletic Club, teenage winger Lamine Yamal producing the decisive moment in Bilbao.
However, leading the line on the night was Torres, who endured another frustrating game in front of goal, extending his run to eight matches without scoring.
Torres had opportunities to end that drought at San Mames, including an inventive aerial backheel just before half-time that drifted narrowly wide. He was eventually replaced by Robert Lewandowski in the second half.
Flick said after the match that he still believes in the player and backed him to turn his form around.
“He lacks confidence right now, but we are working on it,” Flick said. “It’s important to try everything in matches. He’s in a good dynamic, he’s fast, and right now he’s just having a bit of bad luck, but if I can help him, I will.”
While Torres struggled, it was Yamal who once again delivered the moment that decided the contest. The 18-year-old broke the deadlock in the 68th minute with a trademark curling effort that proved enough to secure the points for the league leaders.
Flick admitted the young winger had not been at his sharpest overall, but praised his ability to change a game with a single action.
“He didn’t have his best game, but his goal decided it,” said Flick. “When he has space, opportunities, he trains a lot. It’s good that he can solve the game in a situation.”
