Two days after Hansi Flick was once again named Coach of the Season, La Liga also announced its Player of the Season. Unsurprisingly, he too comes from the champions, FC Barcelona.
Last summer, Raphinha was named La Liga Player of the Season, but this year he has to give way to his teammate Lamine Yamal. With 16 goals and 11 assists, the 18-year-old played a key role in FC Barcelona’s title defense; he also became the first player ever to be named Professional of the Month three times in a single season.
This achievement is all the more remarkable when you consider the offensive player’s injury problems, which limited him to just 28 league appearances. Due to groin issues, he had to sit out intermittently during the first half of the season, and in April, the youngster was even forced to end his season early.
Appearance in Spain’s World Cup opener still in doubt
The thigh injury he sustained in the match against Celta Vigo (1-0) is still affecting him today. Lamine Yamal could be fit again in time for Spain’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde on June 15, but he may only be able to play “a few minutes,” as national team coach Luis de la Fuente explained on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Hansi Flick is likely hoping that Lamine Yamal doesn’t suffer any further injuries during the continental tournament. The Spaniard’s club coach was also honored just two days ago for his achievements in the past season—unlike Lamine Yamal, this marks his second consecutive year receiving such recognition.
