‘It’s garbage’ — Hansi Flick erupts in press conference over false stories about €200m Barcelona star | OneFootball

The private life of FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has been under intense media scrutiny in recent days. While such attention is often expected for a rising superstar, some of the recent claims circulating in the media have been particularly harmful, both to the young player and to the club.

One of the most discussed rumors suggested that Yamal arrived late for the team talk before the UEFA Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain. In the past, Hansi Flick has not hesitated to discipline players for similar incidents, even if it meant leaving key figures out of his starting lineup.

However, journalist Manu Carreño recently claimed on El Larguero that Barcelona sporting director Deco had asked Flick not to punish Yamal for the alleged incident, and that the German coach only agreed to start the €200 million-rated winger after some persuasion. The same report also suggested that the club was concerned about Yamal’s lifestyle off the pitch.

Addressing these reports in his pre-match press conference ahead of the clash with Girona, Flick took the opportunity to completely dismiss the speculation. As reported by SPORT, the Barcelona coach appeared visibly frustrated when asked about the matter.

“I would like to know where that rumor came from. It’s garbage — sorry for saying it that way. At this club, with Deco and the rest of the staff, I have a relationship I truly value. They believe in our work. They would never ask us to do something like that. It’s rubbish, it’s a false rumor — it’s garbage, and if someone said it, they are lying,” Flick said firmly.

Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images

When asked about Yamal’s private life, the coach expressed satisfaction with the youngster’s professionalism and effort, making it clear that what the player does outside of training is his own business.

“For me, the most important thing is that when he’s here and training, he works hard and shows the attitude I want to see — and that’s exactly what he does. Everything is perfect in that regard. When he has days off, since he trains hard, that’s his choice and his private life. I don’t interfere with that. Everyone’s life is their own,” Flick explained.

Such rumors and constant media criticism can end up having a drastic impact on any individual, let alone a player who is still only 18 years of age. Thus, Hansi Flick did a good job of protecting the youngster, and hopefully, Lamine Yamal will continue putting in spectacular performances as he comes back from his injury.