FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick addressed the team's situation ahead of the trip to Mestalla to face Valencia this Saturday. In a press conference at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, the German manager confirmed that Lamine Yamal, despite a knock, will travel with the Blaugrana squad. Barcelona arrives for Sunday's match as La Liga leaders with 9 points from a possible 9, following a perfect start with 12 goals scored and only 2 conceded.
As reported by Mundo Deportivo, the conference started with a slight delay. Flick cleared up doubts about his young star's condition. "Lamine Yamal did not train with the group today, but he will travel with us to Valencia," stated the coach. The 19-year-old player suffered a blow but is expected to be available for the match. The team, which will travel to Valencia around 18:00, will look to extend their lead at the top of the table after Real Madrid's loss to Betis.
Who are Barcelona's captains?
Flick also detailed the process for designating the captains for the 2026-27 season. The coach revealed that he initially chose three players as provisional captains before the Joan Gamper Trophy. "First Raphinha, second Pedri, third Eric," said Flick, citing the established order. Later, the squad held a vote that confirmed Eric García, Frenkie de Jong, and Lamine Yamal in the leadership roles.
The manager explained his view on Raphinha and Pedri, whom he considers fixed and influential pieces. "Whether he plays as a winger or goes to the center as a '9', he does it very well, he is our best option there, for now. He brings pressure, speed...", he commented about the Brazilian. The final choice reflects the dressing room's opinion and consolidates a shared leadership. This information about the team structure can be checked against the official list on our squad page.
How does the team arrive at Mestalla?
The atmosphere within the Blaugrana squad is positive. Flick highlighted the great attitude and good vibe he perceives within the group. The team faces the match with the ambition of taking all points before the first international break of the season. The challenge at Mestalla will be tough, with a forecast of 34 degrees Celsius at kick-off time (16:15).
On the tactical front, Jules Koundé looks like an important option. The Frenchman, who did not start the season in the lineup, is seen by Flick as a professional capable of performing at his best both as a center-back and a full-back. The coach recalled his great performances in that position during his first campaign in charge of the club. The squad, in general, is described by Flick as very good and top-level.
What's new with signings and absentees?
The transfer market was also a topic of conversation. Flick acknowledged the difficulty of letting La Masia academy players leave to succeed elsewhere. The summer signings, decided alongside sporting director Deco, responded to the need to cover important departures. The club made a record investment to raise the team's level and compete for titles.
Regarding absences, the team has an injury list that includes Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, Jesse Bisiwu, Roony Bardghji, and Eric García. Their status can be followed in detail in our injuries section. A positive update is the arrival of Gabriel Jesus. The forward, who recently joined from Arsenal, is not 100% fit, but Flick is confident he can play some minutes, likely in the second half, depending on the flow of the game.
Barcelona, who sit first in the standings, face a Valencia side currently in 17th place. Sunday's match at Mestalla is the next fixture on the official fixtures calendar.
