Lamine Yamal explains what Barcelona need to win the Champions League: ‘It all comes down to…’ | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal has made it clear that Barcelona are not satisfied with just enjoying their impressive start to the season, as they have other ambitions to achieve too.

The Blaugrana have established themselves as one of the teams to watch this campaign, and Yamal believes the squad has the quality and togetherness required to compete for the biggest trophies.

Speaking to On Sport (h/t Mundo Deportivo), the Barcelona forward discussed the team’s form, the Champions League, the comparison between Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, and the mentality of Hansi Flick’s squad.

Yamal knows Barcelona will need luck in Europe

The Champions League remains the biggest challenge facing Barcelona, particularly because one poor performance can end an entire European campaign.

Yamal believes experience and luck can play an important role when the margins are so small.

“It all comes down to fate. The Champions League isn’t decided in a single match; you can play badly and lose the title. 

“So you need luck, along with experience, and these things build up year after year,” he said.

Lamine Yamal has spoken positively about Barcelona’s UCL chances. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Simply put, Barcelona can control their performances, but the knockout stages often come down to small moments, injuries, finishing and the ability to handle pressure.

That, however, has not reduced Yamal’s ambition.

“I hope luck is on our side this year. We’re playing to win the title; we’re not here just for a stroll. 

“We want to win and bring the trophy back to Barcelona, and God willing, we’ll achieve victory this year”.

Raphinha and Lewandowski offer different weapons

Yamal was also asked to compare Lewandowski with Raphinha after the Brazilian’s excellent start playing as a centre-forward.

Rather than choosing between the two, the Barcelona forward highlighted how their contrasting qualities can benefit the team.

“I don’t think it’s a question of better or worse. The team adapts to different players, and each player has different strengths. 

Yamal has refused to compare Raphinha and Lewandowski. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“Robert, for example, stands out for his ability to finish attacking moves, whilst Raphinha is a great passer. Each has their own strengths and skills, and every player stands out for what they do.”

Barcelona’s winning mentality is driving their start

Yamal is equally positive about the improvement he has seen within the squad.

New arrivals have settled quickly, while the understanding between the established members of the team appears to have grown. That combination has helped Barcelona produce a strong opening to the campaign.

“We’re in great form at the moment and we’re keen to keep playing entertaining and exciting football. 

“I think there’s been a step up in standard, performance and quality, both because of the new players who have settled in well and because of the chemistry between the established players, which is growing stronger by the day.”

Lastly, Yamal also stressed that the squad is united behind a common objective.

“We all play with the same mindset – a winning mindset – and we’ll always do what we believe is best for the team. We’re one big family within the squad, and our aim is always to win,” he concluded.