Lamine Yamal has returned to work with FC Barcelona, leaving everyone speechless. The young academy player has started the preseason with an energy, strength, and maturity that do not go unnoticed. After an intense social vacation, there were doubts about how he would arrive physically, but he has dispelled them from day one.
His performance in the first training sessions has been overwhelming. The coaching staff did not expect such an immediate response, much less one so forceful. Lamine is not just in great physical shape; he has also shown that he has grown as a footballer over the summer.
He has improved his reading of the game, positioning, and decision-making in dangerous areas. His physical change is evident: more muscular, faster, and with a balance in his runs that is intimidating. "He's like a bull," they say at Ciutat Esportiva with absolute admiration.
Flick wants him to be a leader
The feeling in the locker room is that Lamine is no longer a promise, but an established figure. It's not just what he shows on the field, but his behavior within the group, much more vocal and committed. Flick has taken note and is already working with a system that allows him to maximize his potential without overworking him.
The German coach knows he has a game-changing player on his hands, capable of deciding matches on his own. Yamal has not come to be just another player: he wants to lead from the very first minute of the season. His ambition and maturity have surprised the locker room heavyweights, who already look at him with absolute respect.
The club is taking care of every detail of his progression, both physically and mentally. Nobody wants to take risks or repeat past mistakes with young talents. But the level he is showing makes him an impossible piece to ignore in the starting line-ups.
Promising partnership with Rashford
One of the most notable aspects of this preseason is his connection with Marcus Rashford. Even though they've only been together for a few days, the chemistry between them is more than evident. They understand each other, look for each other, and complement each other perfectly on the field.
Rashford has publicly praised the young winger, stating that he has "supernatural" talent. Meanwhile, Lamine feels comfortable with the Englishman and has expressed gratitude for having a role model with his experience. Together, they could form one of the most fearsome flanks in Europe.
There's nothing else being talked about in the locker room: the Yamal–Rashford partnership excites both players and coaches alike. Both can alternate positions, exploit spaces, and constantly create imbalances. If they keep this up, they'll be undisputed starters throughout the season.
A phenomenon that's already the present
Lamine wants to make it clear that he's not here by chance or because of a good streak. He wants to mark an era at Barça and is convinced that this year will be key for his career. What used to be flashes of talent has now turned into leadership and consistency.
The fitness coaches remain surprised by his endurance, strength, and commitment in every drill. Flick has already designed a specific plan to protect him, but also to make the most of his performance. The season is just getting started and Lamine is already setting the pace for the squad.
Barça smiles as it watches its new gem grow. Lamine Yamal has come back better than ever, with the "10" on his back and without fear of anything. His message to the soccer world is clear: he's ready to take it by storm.