Yamal’s availability uncertain for Real Sociedad match

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick shared updates on his squad’s fitness ahead of their Sunday La Liga match against Real Sociedad, highlighting uncertainty about teenage winger Lamine Yamal’s readiness. 

The 16-year-old, who has played extensively in recent weeks, spent Saturday training separately with a focus on strength exercises.

“Lamine… did specific strength training. He’s had a lot of matches in the last weeks so we took care of him… we’ll see what the situation is tomorrow,” Flick explained.

Despite concerns over a few players, Flick remains optimistic about Dani Olmo’s availability.

Although Olmo had experienced some discomfort overnight, his condition improved with medical attention.

“With Dani… this morning is doing better,” Flick noted, suggesting that Olmo should be prepared for the upcoming fixture.

Defender Pau Cubarsi, who sustained a facial cut during the Champions League win over Red Star Belgrade, participated in the entire training session on Saturday and is expected to be match-ready.

Barcelona’s comfortable nine-point lead over second-place Real Madrid reinforces their dominance in La Liga.

Nonetheless, Flick has stressed the importance of discipline in his squad, citing punctuality as a crucial standard.

Spanish media recently reported that French defender Jules Kounde was benched against Alaves in October due to lateness at a team meeting, underscoring Flick’s commitment to team discipline.

“It’s a rule. I don’t speak about what happened in the past, it’s just about respect for the team,” said Flick.

“If you are five minutes too late, the others have to wait, this is not respect, this is not my understanding of being respectful.”