Hansi Flick has hailed Lamine Yamal as the world’s best player after another star turn from Barcelona’s teenage sensation.
Yamal scored twice and provided an assist as Barca notched their sixth La Liga win this season, beating Real Betis 5-2 in Seville on Saturday.
The winger has been directly involved in a goal in nine consecutive games across all competitions (nine goals, 10 assists), his best run at club level in his career (162 games).
Yamal is the first player from Europe’s five major leagues to reach 10 assists this season across all competitions, and Flick feels he is the best player on the planet as it stands.
“When you see the first goal he scored, it’s incredible; right now he is the best player in the world,” Flick said of Yamal.
“I am very happy with his performance and that is what I want to say.
“Of course, Lamine is under pressure; he is just 19 and has played every game, but he is 100 per cent focused and committed. His performances have been incredible.”
Double injury
Flick was dealt a double blow ahead of a crucial week after the club confirmed injuries to defenders Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia on social media on Sunday.