Flick open about Yamal's current form

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has addressed the recent dip in form of teenage superstar Lamine Yamal, acknowledging that the young winger is not currently operating at the level he is capable of.

Speaking ahead of his side's latest fixtures, Flick admitted that the 17-year-old has struggled to reach the heights that saw him light up European football over the past year.

"He's not on his top level," Flick said of Yamal, offering an honest assessment of the winger's recent performances. The German tactician's comments mark a notable public acknowledgement of the teenager's current struggles.

The Barcelona boss has remained supportive of the young forward but has been clear-eyed about the standards expected in the Blaugrana first team. While Yamal has continued to be a fixture in the starting lineup, recent displays have not quite matched the explosive impact he produced during his breakthrough campaign.

Flick's remarks underline the high bar Yamal has set for himself, with anything less than his extraordinary best now drawing scrutiny. The club will be hoping the teenager can rediscover his scintillating form sooner rather than later as they push on across all competitions.