Flick Admits Yamal Rest Plan Had to Be Scrapped Mid-Game
Hansi Flick admitted that his plan to rest Lamine Yamal had to be abandoned midway through FC Barcelonaâs La Liga win over RCD Espanyol on Saturday.
Despite securing all three points, the German coach revealed that not everything went according to planâparticularly regarding the young star, who was initially expected to be given some rest during the match. Reports before kickoff suggested Yamal had picked up a minor knock in training, raising questions about how heavily he would be involved. However, the teenage forward was named in the starting lineup at Camp Nou and ended up playing the full 90 minutes in a hard-fought encounter.
Flick explained that everything looked comfortable in the first half. Barcelona dominated possession, created multiple chances, and took a 2-0 leadâat which point he believed it would be the perfect moment to give Yamal a break. But the game shifted after Espanyol pulled one back in the 56th minute, making it 2-1 and bringing tension back into the match.
The German manager admitted that once the game became competitive again, all decisions had to prioritize the teamâs immediate needs. As a result, the plan to substitute Yamal was scrapped, despite the initial intention to protect him. Flickâs comments highlighted how, at this level, player management often has to give way to the demands of the situationâespecially when the result is still at risk.
Flick also addressed the situation of Gerard MartÃn, who was substituted at halftime after appearing to pick up an injury late in the first half. The Barcelona boss remained optimistic, suggesting the issue is not serious and that the defender could be available again for Tuesdayâs match.
That update comes as a boost for Barcelona ahead of their upcoming clash with AtlÃĐtico Madrid, particularly with Pau Cubarsà set to miss the game through suspension. Having MartÃn UFABET911 fit would provide valuable depth and flexibility in defense at a crucial stage of the season.
Although Barcelona ultimately secured the win against Espanyol, Flickâs remarks underline that managing a team during the decisive stretch of the campaign goes beyond just resultsâit also involves carefully balancing the fitness and workload of key players. In Yamalâs case, this match serves as a clear reminder that no matter how well plans are prepared, football can always change in an instant.