Marca Speaks Up for Yamal: La Liga Should Better Protect This Talent

Multiple Spanish media outlets collectively pointed out that, given the injuries to several star players, La Liga should pay more attention to protecting talents like Yamal. Even a medium such as Marca has issued similar commentary.

This season, Yamal continued to showcase his extraordinary talent in La Liga matches. However, the Catalans are somewhat concerned about the situation of this Spanish international. This is mainly due to the recent surge in player injuries. Recently, Rodri suffered a cruciate ligament injury and will be out for at least nine months. Mbappe also had to seek help from Real Madrid’s medical department. On the Barcelona side, Ter Stegen’s right patellar tendon rupture has virtually ended his season.

Therefore, neither Barcelona nor La Liga wish to see Yamal suffer any setbacks. Flick is counting on this 17-year-old starlet. This season, Yamal has participated in eight games across all competitions, playing 706 minutes, scoring four goals, and providing five assists.

The Sport wrote: “Whenever he sees the team in trouble, he shows an ‘I’m here’ attitude. The sense of responsibility and mission he displays in games is rare among other 17-year-old players. Although Getafe tightly marked him, he still managed to show his abilities.”

Flick was once again impressed by Yamal after the game: “I believe a player’s level has nothing to do with age. At his age, he is doing some incredible things. He can become the best, that’s for sure.”

However, Spanish media are also worried that Yamal seemed to limp slightly after the game, causing Barcelona to draw a sharp breath. Even Marca pointed out: “Yamal did not receive adequate protection. Getafe used aggressive tactics against him. Milla, Sola, Yeru, Uche, Iglesias… took turns or simultaneously challenging him, trying to stop him. Every time the Spanish international was fouled, there would be screams from the stands, fearing their superstar might get injured. Even captain Rafinha spoke to referee González Fuertes because his lenient officiating put his young teammate at risk, but the referee remained unmoved.”

In short, whether it’s fans or the Spanish media, everyone hopes that Yamal receives more protection, as no one wants to see this young talent get injured due to an officiating style that encourages rough play, thus being sidelined from the pitch.