1 min read
Football Insider

Ferran Torres' Confidence Woes: Flick's Support and Yamal's Brilliance Secure Barcelona's Win

Barcelona extended their La Liga lead with a hard-fought victory over Athletic Club, with Ferran Torres' goal drought continuing and Lamine Yamal shining. Hansi Flick addressed Torres' lack of confidence post-match, expressing faith in the player's abilities despite his struggles.

Ferran Torres' Confidence Woes: Flick's Support and Yamal's Brilliance Secure Barcelona's Win

Barcelona bolstered their position at the top of La Liga with a hard-fought victory over Athletic Club on Saturday, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Lamine Yamal. However, it wasn't all celebrations for Hansi Flick, who had to address the personal situation of Ferran Torres. The Valencian forward marked his eighth consecutive game without scoring, showing clear signs of frustration before being substituted in the second half.The German strategist remains confident that Torres' speed and dynamism will eventually overcome this poor run of form, despite the striker missing several clear chances during the match in Bilbao. Flick emphasised that the coaching staff is fully committed to helping the player regain his clinical edge, as internal competition for places in the starting XI continues to intensify ahead of their upcoming European fixtures.In the post-match press conference, Flick addressed the Spanish international’s dip in form. "Ferran? He lacks confidence right now, but we are working on it. It’s important to try everything in matches; he’s in a good dynamic, he’s fast, and right now he’s just having a bit of bad luck, but if I can help him, I will," the coach stated. Ferran had a major chance just before half-time with an aerial backheel that missed by millimetres, eventually leading to his substitution for Robert Lewandowski.Lamine Yamal was once again the deciding factor, scoring a trademark left-footed curl in the 68th minute to break the deadlock. Flick also praised the return of Pedri, who came off the bench, and the team spirit, saying: "Of course Pedri changes games; we saw it again today. I am proud of them... this special atmosphere in the team - how they stand together, the environment, everything is fantastic."He added of Yamal: "He didn't have his best game, but his goal decided it. When he has space, opportunities... he trains a lot. It's good that he can solve the game in a situation." Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingAthletic coach Ernesto Valverde lamented his side's lack of clinical finishing compared to the league leaders. "We leave frustrated by the result; we deserved more," he said. "But look, the opponent doesn't forgive. You have to score the chances you get because they put the one they have into the top corner." The win keeps Barcelona four points clear of Real Madrid.

1

Flick's Support for Torres

Barcelona's head coach Hansi Flick acknowledged Ferran Torres' ongoing goal drought, marking eight games without finding the back of the net. Flick attributed Torres' struggles to a lack of confidence but assured his support for the Spanish forward. Emphasizing Torres' speed and dynamism, Flick remains optimistic that the player will rediscover his scoring touch.

2

Yamal's Impact and Team Dynamics

Lamine Yamal emerged as the hero for Barcelona with a stunning left-footed strike that broke the deadlock against Athletic Club. Despite not having his best performance overall, Yamal's decisive goal highlighted his ability to change games. Flick commended the team spirit and unity, particularly noting the impact of Pedri coming off the bench to influence the match.

3

Valverde's Frustration and Barcelona's Lead

Athletic Club coach Ernesto Valverde expressed disappointment in his team's lack of clinical finishing compared to Barcelona, who capitalized on their opportunities. Although feeling they deserved more from the game, Valverde acknowledged Barcelona's efficiency in front of goal. The win maintained Barcelona's lead at the top of La Liga, keeping them four points clear of Real Madrid.

Published on Mar 7, 2026