The sporting director of FC Barcelona, Anderson Luis de Souza, Deco, spoke with 'RAC1' about the current situation with Lamine Yamal. For the former Portuguese international, it is clear that both the '19' and the rest of the internationals need to rest more, which is why the calendar must be reviewed. In that sense, he avoided criticizing the Spanish coach for how he has managed the Barça youth squad's minutes.
"The problem is not with (Luis) De la Fuente. He does his job, he is the coach and tries to call up the best players," said the former Portuguese international, recalling that, for four years, there have no longer been friendlies because plays the Nations League. This means that footballers have to play too many games, which is why "something has to be done with the calendar."
In addition, he reiterated the need to protect the players, especially the young ones. "We have to take care of Lamine, he is still in the training process, but if we individualize we will be unfair to the others," added Deco. For Barça, luckily, the last break did not generate new losses due to injury, although the one from Esplugues de Llobregat returned with some physical discomfort.
Deco, surrendered to the talent and maturity of Lamine Yamal
On the other hand, the one from Sao Paulo took the opportunity to praise Yamal's character and maturity, since, in addition to having an unusual personality in youth teams, he has also had to grow in a Barça in the process of renewal. "Lamine is writing his history in his club, which is Barça. Like Leo Messi, like Iniesta. He has everything to be a reference in his club. It is wonderful to have him at home," commented the culé sports director.
However, he avoided making comparisons with 'La Pulga' or other 'cracks' in Barça history. "There will always be comparisons because football is passion and idolatry and we cannot ask people otherwise, but each thing in its time," he pointed out in his talk with 'RAC1'. Lamine is still a doubt for Sunday's game against Sevilla due to muscle overload, but he should have no problems facing Bayern Munich and Real Madrid next week.