Barcelona boss Hansi Flick believes teenage star Lamine Yamal is on track to rediscover top form.
The 19-year-old forward struggled in Barça’s 5-0 La Liga win at Elche last weekend before producing an improved display in Thursday’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao.
Barcelona will bid to maintain their 100% start to the new campaign on Monday evening when Rayo Vallecano visit Camp Nou.
“He’s played two matches; the first one maybe wasn’t his best, but I’m happy because he gives us more, he creates opportunities,” Flick told a press conference, according to Marca.
“Against Athletic he played the full 90 minutes, I saw him at his best. Today he was excellent. He’s on the right track. We have to support him, and I’m going to do it.”
Yamal missed the end of last season after suffering a hamstring injury in April.
He returned to action at the World Cup but, despite Spain’s success, had limited individual impact at the tournament.
“It’s always good when a player smiles, but not every day is the same,” said Flick.
“I don’t smile every day either. Everyone is worried about him, but he played in a World Cup after an injury.”
Barcelona have failed to sign transfer target Julian Alvarez from Atlético Madrid this summer after veteran striker Robert Lewandowski joined Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire.
“I’m happy with the team I have,” said Flick.
“Deco (sporting director) is working to see if he can strengthen it. But we’re not under any pressure.
“So far, he’s done a fantastic job. For me, everything is fine. I see quality in training, and we’re doing well. We’re on the right track.”
Captain Raphinha played as a makeshift number nine in the club’s opening two matches, scoring three times. Fermín López claimed his third goal of the season after ending the Bilbao game in that position.
“As a number nine, he starts the press well,” Flick said of Raphinha.
“And he’s a leader on the pitch. He has intensity. And he’s very good in front of goal. That’s why he plays there. It’s not a problem for him.
“Fermín can also play there. He played the last few minutes and he also scored.”
Midfielder Rodri could make his full debut against Rayo Vallecano after his arrival from Manchester City.
The 30-year-old, who was named player of the tournament at the World Cup, came on as a substitute against Athletic Bilbao.
“Rodri has had some minor issues in recent days, but he’s fine now,” said Flick. “He’s ready to start, but we’ll see.”
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