The teenager was left out of the starting XI after missing training ahead of the game.
Lamine Yamal's Absence from Starting XI
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick clarified that Lamine Yamal was placed on the bench for the Spanish Super Cup match against Athletic Club because he had been feeling unwell and missed recent training sessions due to a stomach problem, not a recurrence of his previous pubalgia injury. Yamal later joined the game in the second half, and is expected to be fit for the final.
Team Performance and Raphinha's Contribution
Flick expressed high satisfaction with Barcelona's overall performance against Athletic, highlighting their clean sheet as a boost to defensive confidence. He particularly praised Raphinha, who scored two goals, commending his effort and leadership on the field as an excellent example for the team.
