Barcelona will look to stop the bleeding on Tuesday night at Estadi de Son Moix when they take on Mallorca in a gruelling clash.
For the first time this season, the Blaugrana are looking vulnerable and it is hard to believe that they were a giant-conquering team even just a month ago.
Yet, with fatigue kicking in and not many options on the bench, the manager appears to be in a fix and must find solutions fast.
Praise for Yamal
Speaking to the media ahead of his team’s game against Barcelona, Mallorca manager Jagoba Arrasate gave his opinion on Lamine Yamal and the youngster’s impact on the team at such a young age.
“It is striking that a 17-year-old player has such an impact on his team, on the game, in everything he does. With him, they have played 11 league games and have won all 11. And when he hasn’t been there they haven’t won,” he said.
“This does not mean that he is essential but you can understand the impact he has on the game. Surely they attack with more order, that they have more offensive solutions, that the team is better prepared to attack after loss,” he added.
Arrasate holds Lamine in high regard. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)
Arrasate then revealed he was not shocked by Yamal’s rise to prominence and that it was always coming given his talent.
“It is no longer surprising because he has been like this for a year, but we must put in value that a 17-year-old player has such an impact on Barcelona and on the National Team.”
Mallorca manager holds Barcelona in high regard
Speaking about the Catalans’ recent slump in form Arrasate insisted that one must not read much into it.
“It is true that they defend in a very particular way, forward, and leave a lot of space behind. It’s hard to find that pass because they squeeze very well. If you are able to do it, then you do have room to conquer,” he said on Barcelona’s defence.
“It’s easier said than done. In the last games they have fit more, but surely they are turning it around. It would hurt to think that Barça arrives at a bad time, that it is a more vulnerable Barça,” he added with caution.
He then urged his team to turn up on the night as they would against a high-flying Barcelona.
“On the contrary, they will come concentrated, aware. We have to wait for the best Barça.”
Source: SPORT