FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has urged Lamine Yamal. He wants the young star to forget their recent loss to Chelsea. Flick stressed the importance of focusing on Saturday’s LaLiga match against Alaves.

Recap: Barcelona’s Chelsea Defeat

Barcelona suffered a 3-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday. This Champions League match saw Ronald Araujo receive a red card. Lamine Yamal faced a tough night. He managed just one shot on goal. Yamal completed four of ten dribbles. Still, he won 12 of 17 duels. He also created more chances than any teammate.

The 18-year-old struggled against Marc Cucurella. The Spanish defender kept Yamal unusually quiet. Yamal was replaced in the 80th minute.

Flick’s Message to Yamal

Ahead of the Alaves game, Flick encouraged Yamal. He told the teenager to move past the defeat. Flick wants him to display his usual quality. “Lamine’s mood is good,” Flick stated. “Many players are unhappy when substituted. I was a player too. Sometimes, I didn’t react well. It’s about emotion.”

Flick praised Cucurella. “For me, Cucurella is one of the world’s best left-backs,” he explained. “He is difficult to play against. He is very smart and intelligent defensively.”

Flick’s message to Yamal was clear. “Lamine must now show it wasn’t about that match. Forget it. Alaves is important now. He has to perform at his best level.”

Team News Ahead of Alaves Clash

Barcelona faces some squad changes. Fermin Lopez is out for two weeks. He has a calf problem. Ronald Araujo is also likely to miss the match. He is suffering from a stomach bug.

However, there is good news for Flick. Pedri is set to return to action. Raphinha and Marcus Rashford could also start. Both players featured as substitutes against Chelsea.

Flick Praises Raphinha’s Impact

Flick spoke highly of Raphinha’s return. “I have really missed Rapha,” he said. “He is vital to our team. He fits our philosophy and playing style.”

Flick highlighted Raphinha’s impact. “He brings a major positive to our game,” Flick noted. “This is true in defense and during pressing. He is also incredibly good in transitions.” Flick added, “He scored many goals last season for a reason. He is hungry to prove himself again after a fantastic year.”

Alaves Form Heading into the Match

Alaves currently sits 14th in the league table. They travel to Barcelona after two narrow losses. These were against Celta Vigo and Girona. Their recent form includes just one win in five league games. This victory was a 2-1 triumph over Espanyol this month.