Sun Nov 24 01:14:20 UTC 2024: ## Barcelona Coach Challenges Team to Prove Yamal-Independence After Loss

**Barcelona, Spain** – Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has challenged his team to demonstrate their ability to win without teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who remains sidelined with an ankle injury. Yamal will miss a second consecutive match, following Barcelona’s 1-0 defeat to Real Sociedad which ended their seven-game winning streak.

This loss marked Barcelona’s second defeat this season in matches where Yamal didn’t start. The 17-year-old, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s European Championship victory this summer, has been a standout performer for the club, contributing five goals and seven assists this season. His absence has highlighted his significant impact on the team’s performance.

“Tomorrow I will ask the team if they can win without Yamal,” Flick stated in a press conference. “It will be a very good question for them. Against Real Sociedad, we didn’t play well, and it wasn’t because of Lamine’s absence. He’s important, but we have options.”

Flick acknowledged the difficulty in replacing Yamal’s unique combination of speed, skill, and finishing ability, suggesting a potential system adjustment may be necessary. However, he expressed confidence in his squad’s depth and versatility. “We might be a bit limited, but we have many great players who can play in different positions,” he added. “We’ll design a game plan accordingly.”

Yamal’s absence underscores his exceptional contribution; he’s the only player in Europe’s top five leagues to achieve 25+ dribbles, 25+ chances created, 25+ shots, 5+ goals, and 5+ assists this season. While his return date is uncertain, Flick emphasized the importance of a full recovery before his return to the pitch. The team aims to bounce back strongly from the international break and secure a win in their upcoming match.

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