Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has heaped praise on teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, calling him a “genius” ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan.
The Spanish giants are set to face the Italian side on Tuesday night at the San Siro, following an entertaining 3-3 draw in the first leg at Camp Nou. Yamal, just 17 years old, was a standout performer in that match, getting on the scoresheet and continuing to show why he is one of Europe’s brightest young talents.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Monday, Flick emphasized the importance of the entire squad but made sure to highlight Yamal’s brilliance.
“We have exceptional players, with Lamine Yamal, who is a genius,” Flick said. “But it is the team that is the most important thing. We need all our players to be at their best.”
Yamal’s recent form has been crucial for Barcelona as they continue their campaign on both domestic and European fronts. Over the weekend, the Catalan side secured a 2-1 win over Real Valladolid in LaLiga, giving them a boost in confidence heading into the high-stakes clash in Italy.
Inter Milan also head into the second leg on a high note, having defeated Verona 1-0 in Serie A. With the tie evenly poised, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their current momentum to book a spot in the final.
Barcelona fans will be hoping Yamal can produce more magic under the lights of San Siro and lead them to another memorable Champions League night.
