FC Barcelona were far from their best as they faced Real Sociedad away from home last night. The Blaugranes were defeated 1-0 by La Real and will go into the international break with their spirits somewhat dampened.
The Catalan team’s attack was particularly poor in this game, as they managed to take 11 shots, but not even one of these shots landed on target. They kept 70% possession of the ball, but were ultimately unable to make much of this possession.
It was clear that Barcelona were missing one of their key players for this season, Lamine Yamal. The youngster was unable to participate in this game because of a physical issue, and his absence was announced just before the game started.
Hansi Flick talked to the press after the game and addressed the subject of Yamal’s condition. As Fabrizio Romano has reported, the German trainer provided a worrying update on the youngster: “We will miss now Lamine Yamal… I don’t know if he will return after the international break”.
Flick also revealed what the club has asked him to do following this problem: “We’ve asked for him not to travel to the national team”.
This is quite a worrying situation, as Hansi Flick was not sure how long the youngster will remain out of action. Further tests are yet to be carried out on him, but the Blaugranes cannot afford to lose him for long.
The game last night was a clear indication of how much Barcelona missed Lamine Yamal, who has established himself as one of the key parts of Hansi Flick’s team. Without him, the threat from the right wing was almost non-existent until Raphinha moved to that position, but it was already too late by the time that move came.
Luckily, the Blaugranes have two weeks of break coming up, with the November international break, and will be looking forward to having the winger back with them by the time of their next game.