Hansi Flick said it was easier to take Lamine Yamal off the pitch after the 17‑year‑old scored twice in Barcelona’s 6‑1 La Liga triumph over Alavés at the Spotify Camp Nou. The teenager, who has started every one of the club’s 18 matches this season, was substituted with 20 minutes remaining, allowing the coach to manage his minutes after a decisive performance.
Barcelona’s victory snapped a run of defeats to Paris Saint‑Germain in the Champions League and Real Madrid in the league, restoring the team to the top of the Spanish table. The win was built on an early goal from Raphinha, followed by a second from Fermín López. Yamal then added a brace, first a brilliant finish from the edge of the box before a second dinked goal that had briefly been ruled offside. Anthony Gordon sealed the scoreline with the sixth, while Mariano Díaz added a consolation for the visitors.
Flick praised Yamal’s confidence and the “one‑on‑one” situations he was able to exploit, noting that the youngster’s performance was a sign of the attacking quality the team needs after the recent setbacks. He also highlighted the makeshift defence, with Frenkie de Jong slotting in at centre‑back and Brian Fariñas making his full debut at right‑back. “We have to think differently,” Flick said, explaining that the absence of four defenders—Xavi Espart, Andreas Christensen, Jules Koundé and Eric García—had forced the squad to adapt. He commended both Frenkie and Fariñas for stepping up, describing Fariñas as “focused, top in training, very professional.”
The result returned Barça to the summit of La Liga after Atlético Madrid had overtaken them earlier in the week. With 10 wins from 11 games, the club’s league campaign is strong, and Flick celebrated his 100th victory since taking charge in 2024. “I am really happy about this,” he said, adding that the milestone was a testament to the team’s progress.
Looking ahead, Barcelona will host Aston Villa in the Champions League on Tuesday, followed by a top‑of‑the‑table clash away at Atlético Madrid next weekend before the international break. The win over Alavés gives the squad confidence as they prepare for the upcoming fixtures.