Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal has downplayed coach Hansi Flick’s comments about “egos” in the squad following their 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano, insisting the dropped points were down to performance levels rather than internal issues, ,MySportDab Reports.
The result ended Barça’s perfect start to the 2025–26 La Liga season after victories over Mallorca and Levante. Flick reacted strongly post-match, warning that “egos kill success” and reminding players that last season’s treble triumph was built on collective unity.
Speaking while on international duty with Spain, 17-year-old Yamal suggested Flick’s words were more about frustration in the heat of the moment.
“Everyone has their own opinion. After a draw, you are heated because in the end, you have to win,” Yamal told RTVE. “But I don’t think it has anything to do with egos. We’ve taken seven points from nine in difficult stadiums. We just didn’t start with the right intensity. It wasn’t our game, but it can happen. We have to recover our level and be ready for the next match.”
Yamal, who made his senior Barcelona debut at just 15, has quickly become one of world football’s most scrutinized young talents.
Now 17, he faces constant attention both on and off the pitch, with recent criticism directed at his perceived arrogance and even the entertainment at his birthday celebrations.
The winger brushed off such narratives, saying he has learned to ignore speculation. “I’ve realised that everything that happens in my life will be talked about, and many times things are made up. I don’t care much. I only listen to my circle — they are the ones who know what really matters. I continue with the mentality that has brought me here.”
