Barcelona manager Hansi Flick responds to the unhappiness of Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has made it clear that he will not give in to the wishes of his players, after a small signing of discontent from star duo Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal. The Blaugrana were 4-0 against Young Boys in the Champions League, when both were sent off.
Pau Victor and Frenkie de Jong came on for the pair, but the reality is that both looked irritated to be sidelined for the last 10 minutes. Lewandowski was on a hat-trick, while Yamal plates was yet to be scored.
“It's part of the game. We don't have just one player, but many. There are many games and he had many minutes. After playing, a change can be made. With Robert Lewandowski I did the same. I'm sure he wanted play more, but that's it. We can't take into account whether a player wants to continue playing or not,” said Flick.
The majority of players, especially at the highest level, are still eager to play every minute, and the two were undoubtedly considering a good opportunity to accumulate goals and assists.
Meanwhile one player who came on with half an hour to go was Ansu Fati, who went off to the left. It had a low-key showing, but after another two months out, it was only presented for the second time.
“It is easy to understand. The position in which Ansu played was because we wanted to give Pedri a rest and we thought that De Jong would play less minutes. Ansu is doing very well in training. He is at a very high level. We have he needs time to be able to play at his best level again. He really wants to improve, he is very professional and he deserves our patience with him.”
Frenkie de Jong: “I'm happy for the win and, personally, to return to playing football. The fans also applauded and I thank you very much for that. A happy night.” Via @mundodeportivo
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) October 2, 2024
While Flick would no doubt prefer Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal to look a little less eager to come out, Barcelona fans will be encouraged by the fact that he feels strong enough to hit his stars. Flick has so far cut a figure of complete authority, while also mixing it with mutual respect. While Barcelona remain in such good form, Flick maintains a position of power.
