Winning at FC Barcelona is always an important objective, but doing it in style is just as vital. Despite ensuring victory against Mallorca in the recent clash, the Blaugranes were far from cruising. In fact, it took some otherworldly brilliance from a certain Barcelona pearl to win them the game.
More names than one would probably have come under great pressure and criticism had Lamine Yamal not showed up when he did. An absolutely beautiful curler from the 16-year-old prodigy was all that separated Barcelona and Mallorca on the field of the Montjuic Stadium.
Among the names that would likely have come under great scrutiny had Barcelona not won the game would undoubtedly have been Ilkay Gundogan. Despite putting on an overall performance that was far from his best, the German had some clear opportunities to give Barcelona an early lead.
However, he squandered both of those chances, one of which was a penalty kick. Accordingly, he must have been really grateful for his teenage teammate and the goal he scored. As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, the German international even made sure to let him know that he “owed him one” after the game.
Congratulating Lamine Yamal and Barcelona, the former Manchester City midfielder made sure not to forget his own faults during the game as well:
“Well deserved home win! Thanks for tonight’s support. I owe you one Lamine Yamal. Onto Tuesday – big UCL game for us. Visca Barça.”
Fortunately for both the players, three points came to Barcelona and that is all that matters. While Gundogan’s game may not have been his best, the ideal situation would now be to look forward to the Napoli clash and aim for a better performance and positive result there.
The German has a good amount of experience in Europe’s premiere competition, and has even won it just last season. However, Yamal is still very much new to it, and will likely need the help of his senior teammate to aid Barcelona in their quest for a better tomorrow.
