‘Most important tactical discovery’ – Fans go wild over Lamine Yamal’s masterclass in new role | OneFootball

It may still be too early to draw firm conclusions, but Hansi Flick’s decision to deploy Lamine Yamal as an attacking midfielder against Real Betis could prove to be one of the most defining tactical moments of Barcelona’s season. 

Whether this was a one-off tactical adjustment or the first sign of a long-term positional evolution remains to be seen. 

What is clear, however, is that Flick is already daring to reshape the role of Barça’s most exciting young star.

Fans are thrilled

Until now, Lamine Yamal has built his reputation as a devastating left-footed winger on the right flank, stretching defences with pace, flair, and one-on-one ability far beyond his years. 

At just 18, he has already become a reference point in Barcelona’s attack. Moving him into more central areas represents a significant shift, not only tactically, but also in how the club envisions his long-term development.

Crucially, Flick has not fully removed Yamal from the wing. Instead, he has begun easing him into central zones, placing him closer to the goal while reducing some of his defensive responsibilities. 

On the flank, a winger is constantly forced to track back when the full-back advances. 

In central areas, Yamal can conserve energy, receive the ball in more dangerous positions, and influence the game with greater consistency in the final third.

The change is far from definitive. Barcelona already possess natural attacking midfielders in Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, both of whom are performing at a very high level. 

Displacing either would be difficult on merit alone. Yet Flick’s thinking appears broader. 

He is not seeking to replace anyone immediately. He is expanding the team’s tactical toolbox, and that in itself is a powerful asset for a side competing on multiple fronts.