Flick Blasts Spain Over Yamal Injury Handling Ahead of Crucial Barcelona Matches

Flick Criticizes Spain's Handling of Yamal Injury; Barcelona Faces Valencia Without Key Players

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has publicly criticized Spain's handling of Lamine Yamal's injury during the international break, leading to the young forward's absence from the upcoming LaLiga match against Valencia. Yamal's groin discomfort, aggravated during Spain's World Cup qualifying matches, has also cast doubt on his availability for Barcelona's Champions League fixture against Newcastle United.

Flick's Displeasure with Spain's Medical Management

Flick expressed his frustration, stating that Yamal played significant minutes in Spain's matches despite experiencing pain and not being able to train between games. He highlighted that Yamal "goes to the national team with pain, didn't train, had painkillers to play." Flick questioned the decision-making process, suggesting a lack of consideration for the player's well-being, emphasizing that "This is not taking care of players." He further added that Spain, with its vast talent pool, should have prioritized the player's health.

Communication Issues Between Coaches

Flick also pointed out a lack of communication with Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente. He suggested that language barriers may have contributed to the issue, noting, "Maybe my Spanish is not good, his English is not good, so this is a problem." Flick, drawing from his experience as the former coach of the Germany national team, emphasized the importance of effective communication between club and national team coaches.

Barcelona's Injury Woes Ahead of Valencia Clash

Aside from Yamal, Barcelona will also be without Frenkie de Jong for the match against Valencia due to an injury sustained while on international duty with the Netherlands. Additionally, Gavi and Alejandro Balde remain sidelined. However, the team has received a boost with the return of youngster Marc Bernal to the bench after a lengthy absence due to an ACL injury.

Impact of Playing at Estadi Johan Cruyff

The match against Valencia will be played at the smaller Estadi Johan Cruyff, as renovations continue at Spotify Camp Nou. Despite the reduced capacity, Flick downplayed any potential negative impact, stating, "This is not an excuse. Also Valencia have to play in this stadium." He referenced a preseason victory at the stadium and expressed confidence in his team's ability to perform, emphasizing that "These things don't affect my team."

Thiago Alcântara Joins Barcelona's Coaching Staff

The match will also mark the first fixture with Thiago Alcântara back on the sideline as part of Flick's coaching staff. Flick expressed his enthusiasm about Thiago's return, highlighting his extensive experience and his ability to mentor the younger players. "I am really happy he's back," Flick said, noting that he is a "really good piece of the puzzle for our success."

Barcelona's Record Without Key Players

Barcelona has struggled in matches where both Lamine Yamal and Frenkie de Jong are absent. In four games under Flick where neither player started, the team has failed to secure a victory. The team hopes to reverse this trend as they face Valencia, with potential lineup changes including Marc Casado partnering Pedri in midfield and Raphinha starting on the right flank, and possibly Marcus Rashford on the left. This information is according to Mundo Deportivo.