Flick praises Yamal ‘mentality’ after missing out on Ballon d’Or

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has expressed satisfaction with his performance following his omission from the Ballon d'Or shortlist, which recognized Harry Kane as the best player in the world. Despite the disappointment, Yamal's coach, Hansi Flick, stated that the 19-year-old winger's reaction was commendable and that his "mentality is very good for the team."

Yamal, who won La Liga and the World Cup with Barcelona and Spain respectively, was third in the vote, trailing Kane and Kylian Mbappe. Flick, speaking ahead of Barcelona's home match against Alaves, emphasized the team's need to focus on winning their upcoming fixtures, recalling their strong start of 11 wins in all competitions.

The coach also noted that Alaves are a formidable defensive team, but Barca will seek to showcase their best form against them. Despite Flick's aversion to defeat, he acknowledged that the season is "a long road" and that winning trophies will come at the season's end.