Mansion Sports – Hansi Flick responded to Lamine Yamal’s disappointed reaction when he was substituted during Barcelona’s victory over Levante.

When the substitution board was raised with only two minutes remaining of the regulation 90 minutes, the talented teenager still showed his frustration as he walked toward the touchline.

The coach stressed that he did not take issue with the emotional attitude displayed by the 18-year-old player.

Yamal Wants to Play Every Minute of the Match

Yamal continues to strengthen his reputation as one of the most promising talents in world football. He is predicted to develop into a multiple Ballon d'Or winner in the future.

Nevertheless, occasional questions arise regarding his attitude and the importance of not becoming trapped in the spotlight and the great expectations surrounding him.

Flick has no concerns in that regard, with the Camp Nou side viewing it as a positive sign that their number 10 wants to play the full duration of every match.

Barcelona were in a position that allowed them to grant Yamal a brief rest after taking a three-goal lead over Levante.

Flick Responds to Yamal’s Disappointment After Being Substituted

Yamal provided an assist for Fermin Lopez, who scored Barcelona’s third goal in the 81st minute, meaning that his task in the match had essentially been completed.

However, the young player clearly displayed frustration when he had to sit on the bench before the final whistle was blown.

Flick immediately defused any potential controversy by telling reporters when asked about Yamal’s behaviour: “What reaction? Was he angry? That is normal. For me, the most important thing is that we won and that there are also players who deserve to play, such as Roony Bardghji.

“I like his attitude when he comes on. That is all. You exaggerate everything Lamine does. If he is upset about being substituted, that is human.”

Young Star Bernal Draws Attention Again

The victory returned Barcelona to the top of the La Liga standings, one point ahead of their El Clasico rivals, Real Madrid.

The opening goal from Marc Bernal set them on their way against Levante and helped ease the pressure from the outset of the match.

Flick added: “Scoring early is very important; we saw the confidence from the beginning. As the match progressed, we improved and deserved to win.”

He also commented on Bernal’s contribution, with the 18-year-old academy graduate entrusted to start at the heart of midfield: “When facing a low defensive block, you need support from midfielders arriving from the second line. Marc is a great player for the future. I hope he has a bright future if he remains healthy.”

Flick also assessed Bernal’s overall performance, as he continues to develop in his role as a key player in Catalunya: “He did an extraordinary job, providing structure when we had possession, understanding the positions he must occupy at all times, and controlling the game. I am happy to see him play.”

Dutch player Frenkie de Jong scored Barcelona’s second goal after receiving a pass from the versatile Portuguese player Joao Cancelo.

The 31-year-old full-back is in his second spell with Blaugrana and has delivered a significant impact with contributions on both sides of the pitch.

Flick expressed his praise for the former Manchester City and Al-Hilal player: “He was outstanding, creating chances and that is what I want to see. He showed his strength. He can help us a lot.”

Title Race: Barcelona Return to the Top of La Liga After Real Madrid’s Defeat

Barcelona still have 13 La Liga matches remaining this season in their effort to defend their domestic title, and Flick welcomed his team’s return to the summit.

The German coach said regarding the achievement of reclaiming the top position: “It is important and positive. We had the opportunity after Saturday’s result and we took it. But the journey is still long. Today we delivered the response that was needed.”

Real Madrid surprisingly suffered a 2-1 defeat to Osasuna in their most recent match, thereby opening the door for Barcelona.

Flick’s side will return to action on Saturday when they host Villarreal, before playing the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid, where they currently trail 4-0 on aggregate.