Lamine Yamal shows centre-forward credentials in pre-season training

The exploits of Barcelona star Lamine Yamal in training over the last 24 hours have turned heads amongst those of a Blaugrana persuasion. The 19-year-old has again hinted at his readiness to step into an unfamiliar role as a ‘false 9’ in Hansi Flick’s attacking setup.

Striker shortage forces Barcelona to look inside

The topic of the striker situation has dominated headlines at Barcelona across the summer. After Robert Lewandowski’s exit was followed by Ferran Torres making the call to join Paris Saint-Germain, the Blaugrana have been left alarmingly short on options through the middle.

Barca’s pursuit of priority target Julián Alvarez has to date failed to bear fruit, meaning the reigning Spanish champions could yet be forced to head into their season opener without a recognised natural senior frontman to call upon.

Yamal tested centrally at Ciutat Esportiva

Hansi Flick has already hinted this summer that Lamine Yamal could be tested in a central role. Following his return to training at the Ciutat Esportiva this week, the World Cup winner has showcased precisely why.

During a pair of drills in pre-season training over the last couple of days, Lamine conjured up moments of individual magic, notably whilst taking up positions through the middle, underlining the credentials that have prompted Flick to consider the teenager as an emergency centre-forward option.