“I said it” – Lamine Yamal opens up about his angry reaction after being subbed by Flick vs Alaves

Barcelona teenager sensation Lamine Yamal was visibly frustrated during the club's 3-0 win over Deportivo Alaves on Sunday, which saw the Catalan giants restore their three-point lead over Real Madrid.

Despite the impressive win, courtesy of a Robert Lewandowski hat-trick, Yamal appeared less than pleased after being substituted on the hour mark by manager Hansi Flick, with Ansu Fati in his place.

The 17-year-old, who was sent off early for the second game in a row, he did not hide his emotions as he left the fieldsparking speculation that he was unhappy with the decision.

The cameras captured his apparent anger, leading to speculation about a possible frustration with his manager.

However, Yamal later clarified the situation, explaining that his reaction had nothing to do with Flick's decision to replace him, but rather stemmed from his disappointment in his own performance.

He said (as quoted by World of Sports):

“He asked me why I was like that, either because of the substitution or my performance. I told him that I could have helped the team and that I would be 100% for the next game. He is very close to everyone , whether they play more or less, veterans included, and give a lot of confidence, which is seen in the team.

Yamal's self-deprecating attitude highlights the high standards he has set for himself, even at such a young age. Many 17-year-olds will be satisfied with the regular minutes of the first team, but Yamal has already established himself as a key player for Barcelona and Spain, demanding more from his performances.

His desire to constantly improve and his commitment to helping the team reflects maturity beyond his years, ensuring that his development will only continue on an upward trajectory.

With his talent and mind, Yamal is poised to become one of the game's brightest stars.