Lamine Yamal has become the most decisive and influential player in LaLiga, and the statistics confirm it. With his performance against Mallorca, it became clearer than ever. 

When the 17-year-old talent starts, FC Barcelona is unstoppable: 12 starts, 12 victories. In contrast, the team’s setbacks—three defeats (against Osasuna, Real Sociedad, and Las Palmas) and a draw (against Celta)—occurred when Yamal was either absent or began the game on the bench. This striking record highlights the team’s reliance on the young star.

A Game-Changer on the Pitch

Yamal's contributions extend far beyond his impressive tally of 5 goals and 8 assists this season. His presence on the right flank offers Barcelona a unique blend of creativity, depth, and versatility. His attacking prowess forces opponents to retreat, often nullifying their offensive capabilities. This dynamic not only strengthens Barcelona’s defense but also allows the team to dominate possession and create opportunities.

Yamal’s influence isn’t limited to his individual brilliance; he elevates the performance of his teammates. Players like Jules Koundé and Robert Lewandowski have visibly struggled in his absence. For instance, Koundé’s form has dipped significantly, highlighted by a critical error against Celta, while Lewandowski endured one of his worst performances of the season against Las Palmas without Yamal’s support.

A Key Player in Flick’s Barcelona

Under German coach Hansi Flick, Yamal has become the cornerstone of the team’s strategy. His brief spell on the sidelines due to an ankle injury coincided with Barcelona’s worst run this season, jeopardizing their lead over Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid in the league standings. Flick’s system thrives when Yamal is on the pitch, underscoring the vital role the teenager plays in Barcelona’s success.

Managing the Dependency

While Yamal’s contributions are undeniable, his rapid ascent raises concerns about over-reliance. At just 17 years old, he already carries a significant burden as Barcelona’s main offensive weapon. This level of responsibility, if not carefully managed, could become overwhelming for such a young player.

The club is aware of the risks and is working to ensure Yamal’s growth is sustainable. Players like Pedri and Raphinha have stepped up in his absence, but the overall team dynamic still hinges heavily on Yamal’s presence.

The Champions League Challenge

Barcelona’s dependence on Yamal extends beyond LaLiga. In the Champions League, his importance is equally evident. Although the team suffered a loss to Monaco (2-1) with Yamal in the lineup, mitigating factors such as Eric García’s early red card and Yamal’s lone goal for Barcelona underline his significance.

The Future is Bright

Lamine Yamal is not just Barcelona’s present but also its future. His extraordinary talent has already reshaped the team’s trajectory this season. However, managing his workload and ensuring a balanced team effort will be crucial for both his development and the club’s long-term success. If Yamal continues on this path, it’s clear that Barcelona’s dominance in LaLiga and Europe will only grow stronger.