Lamine Yamal nearing his best again, says Barcelona coach Flick

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick believes teenage winger Lamine Yamal is gradually returning to his best form as the Catalan giants prepare to face Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Monday.

The 19-year-old endured a difficult opening game of the season against Elche but showed signs of improvement in Barcelona's second match against Athletic Bilbao, despite failing to score.

Flick said Yamal's progress should be viewed in the context of his recent workload. The Spain international returned to action at the World Cup after recovering from a hamstring injury suffered in April.

"I know everyone is worried about how Lamine is doing," Flick told reporters on Sunday. "He played a World Cup after a huge injury."

Yamal has yet to rediscover the form he displayed before his injury, while his individual contribution at the World Cup was limited despite Spain ultimately lifting the trophy.

Flick, however, believes the young forward is moving steadily towards his previous level after enjoying three weeks of holiday following the tournament.

"Now he's coming back after three weeks holiday, and also the first game maybe was not his best game," Flick said.

The coach was encouraged by Yamal's willingness to contribute defensively and work for the team, particularly against Athletic.

Although the winger struggled during the opening half of Thursday's match, he became more influential after the interval and completed the full 90 minutes.

Flick said that playing an entire match was important for Yamal as he continues to rebuild his fitness and confidence.

"We saw him in some situations really on this top level," Flick said. "Everyone loves Lamine, and he's in a good way. And we have to support him, and we do that."

Yamal appeared frustrated following the match against Elche, but Flick said he had looked more relaxed during training ahead of the Rayo Vallecano fixture.

The Barcelona coach also played down the significance of the teenager's mood, saying players cannot be expected to be cheerful every day.

"It's always good when the players are smiling, but it's not every day the same way," Flick said. "I'm also not smiling every day. It's like that."

Barcelona have won both of their opening league matches, with Raphinha operating as a makeshift centre-forward after the club failed to secure their preferred striker target, Julian Alvarez, from Atletico Madrid.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the attack, Flick said he was satisfied with the squad available to him.

Sporting director Deco continues to work on strengthening the team, but Flick insisted Barcelona were under no pressure to make another signing.

"Of course, I'm happy with my team," he said, adding that he would remain comfortable with his current squad if the club does not bring in a new striker.