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Lamine Yamal has responded to his latest Ballon d’Or disappointment with the maturity of a champion, according to Barcelona coach Hansi Flick. The teenage forward finished third in this year’s prestigious voting, behind winner Harry Kane and runner-up Kylian Mbappé, but quickly turned his attention back to Barcelona’s demanding season.
Lamine Yamal earns powerful praise from Hansi Flick
Speaking ahead of Barcelona’s LaLiga meeting with Alavés, Flick said Lamine Yamal had handled the result positively and remained focused during training. The German coach also made clear that he believed Kane deserved the award, while continuing to insist that Yamal is already performing at the level required to win football’s most celebrated individual prize.
“He reacted good in my opinion and has been focused in training. This is how champions respond,” Flick said, emphasizing the teenager’s professional attitude after the ceremony.
Yamal had been among the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or. He finished second behind Ousmane Dembélé last year, before ending this year’s voting in third place. Although the result may have disappointed Barcelona supporters, Flick suggested that the award debate was no longer distracting the squad.
“I am just happy [the Ballon d’Or] is now over. Now we can focus on other things,” he said.
A historic third Kopa Trophy for Barcelona’s teenage star
Despite missing out on the main award, Yamal did not leave the gala empty-handed. He won the Kopa Trophy, which recognizes the best male player under the age of 21, for the third consecutive year.
The achievement further underlined his remarkable rise. Yamal has become one of Barcelona’s most influential attacking players while still a teenager, combining creativity, close control and confidence in major matches. His reaction after receiving the award was also notable: he suggested that teammate Pau Cubarsí deserved the trophy more than him.
Flick praised those comments and said Cubarsí had enjoyed an outstanding season. The coach indicated that Barcelona’s young players continue to represent an important part of the club’s future, particularly as the team deals with a growing injury list.
Barcelona face a critical injury challenge
Barcelona enter the Alavés match after consecutive defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid. The losses have created pressure around the squad, but Flick insisted that there is still a long way to go before the season’s major titles are decided.
The biggest immediate concern is in defense. Jules Koundé, Xavi Espart, Eric García and Andreas Christensen are all unavailable through injury, while midfielder Dani Olmo is also sidelined. Flick acknowledged that managing the absences will not be easy.
With only Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, João Cancelo and Alejandro Balde available in defense for the weekend, Barcelona may need to rely on unconventional solutions. Young midfielder Brian Fariñas could be used at full-back, while Frenkie de Jong is another possible option at centre-back.
- Barcelona are missing four defenders through injury.
- Frenkie de Jong could be tested in central defense.
- Brian Fariñas may provide cover at full-back.
- The club could consider signing a centre-back in January.
Flick confirmed that Barcelona are already discussing possible improvements ahead of the January transfer window. However, he stressed that the club still has several weeks to assess its options before making a decision.
Fan section closed after Clásico incidents
Barcelona have also confirmed that the grada de animación, a supporters’ section with capacity for almost 2,000 fans behind one goal at Camp Nou, will be closed for the Alavés match.
The decision follows disciplinary proceedings connected to incidents during last weekend’s Clásico defeat to Real Madrid. Barcelona cited offensive chanting and the throwing of objects after Mbappé scored the winning goal. Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga was struck by a flag during the disorder.
The club said it would meet representatives of the supporter groups to establish commitments for passionate but respectful backing. Barcelona hopes the section can reopen for Tuesday’s Champions League match against Aston Villa if those discussions resolve the concerns.
Why Lamine Yamal’s response matters
Yamal’s calm reaction is significant for Barcelona. The club is managing defensive injuries, recent defeats and disciplinary scrutiny, making leadership and composure increasingly valuable. At just 19, the forward is already expected to influence results while carrying enormous public attention.
For now, Flick believes Yamal’s response reflects the mentality of an elite player. His third-place Ballon d’Or finish may be viewed as a setback, but his record-breaking Kopa Trophy haul and continued focus suggest that Barcelona’s young star remains firmly on an upward path.
Frequently asked questions
How did Lamine Yamal respond to finishing third in the Ballon d’Or?
According to Hansi Flick, Yamal reacted positively, stayed focused in training and showed the mentality of a champion.
Who won the 2026 Ballon d’Or?
Harry Kane won the award, finishing ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal.
What award did Yamal win?
Yamal won the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year as the best male player under the age of 21.
Why will Barcelona’s fan section be closed?
The grada de animación was closed after disciplinary concerns linked to offensive chants and objects thrown during the Clásico against Real Madrid.
Could Barcelona sign a defender in January?
Flick said the club is assessing its options and could consider a centre-back signing if it would strengthen the team.
