Barcelona’s Flick praises Yamal’s ‘mentality’ after missing out on Ballon d’Or
Lamine Yamal was tipped for the Golden Ball which went to Harry Kane, but his Barca boss 'proud' of teenager's reaction.
Lamine Yamal has “reacted very well” following the disappointment of the Ballon d’Or being awarded to Harry Kane, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said on Friday.
Despite winning La Liga with the Catalan club and lifting the World Cup with Spain, the 19-year-old winger came third in the vote for the best player in the world on Monday, behind Kane and Kylian Mbappe.
“Harry Kane deserved it, but you already know what I think about Lamine. He’s at the level required to win this award,” Flick said ahead of the La Liga leaders’ home match against Alaves.
That 4-2 reverse in the French capital was swiftly followed by a Mbappe-inspired 2-1 loss at home to Real Madrid in La Liga last weekend.