Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is at the center of internal tension at the Camp Nou after reports surfaced of a disciplinary clash with head coach Hansi Flick ahead of their crucial Champions League encounter with Paris Saint-Germain.
According to Cadena SER, Flick was ready to drop Yamal from the lineup due to issues with punctuality, only for sporting director Deco to intervene and reverse the decision — a move that allegedly undermined Flick’s authority within the dressing room.
The issue reportedly began when Yamal arrived late for a pre-match team meeting. Flick, known for his strict discipline and no-nonsense management style, immediately decided that the 18-year-old would be benched as punishment.
This is consistent with Flick’s past actions — the German tactician had previously sanctioned players like Jules Koundé, Raphinha, and Inaki Peña for similar infractions. However, the dynamic shifted when Deco stepped in, insisting that Yamal start due to the importance of the match.
The decision left Flick frustrated, with sources suggesting he felt his control over player discipline had been compromised. Yamal eventually played the full 90 minutes against PSG, but later suffered a groin injury that has since kept him sidelined.
While Yamal remains one of Europe’s brightest young talents, Barcelona insiders are reportedly worried about his lifestyle and off-field discipline.
A club source told Cadena SER:
“There is some concern about Lamine’s day-to-day life. It’s not alarming, but we don’t like some of the things that have been happening with the player in recent months. We don’t like the way he’s been living and the life he’s been leading.”
Though the winger is often praised for his work ethic and early arrivals at training, his recent inconsistencies and off-field distractions have raised eyebrows within the club’s hierarchy.
Flick’s initial plan to enforce discipline — followed by Deco’s reversal — has also caused tension among the squad, with some players reportedly questioning why Yamal was treated differently from others who faced punishment for similar issues.
The episode highlights a delicate power balance between Barcelona’s sporting leadership and coaching staff, as well as the pressures of managing young stars thrust into the global spotlight.
For now, Yamal’s future remains bright, but Barcelona will be keen to ensure that talent is matched by professionalism — both on and off the pitch.
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