According to major media reports, Lamine Yamal scored a hat-trick during Barcelona's win over Villarreal. Yamal is the first 18-year-old to score a hat-trick in La Liga since 1967. He has now scored 18 goals this season, making him Barcelona's top scorer, and has matched his goal tally from last season.
Yamal struggled earlier in the season due to a groin problem and general unhappiness. He now feels better and is smiling while playing. 'I didn't feel great [earlier this season].
I didn't feel great [earlier this season]. There was the [groin] problem and, generally, I wasn't happy. It was a mix of many things. You could tell. I have felt a lot better for a week or so now. I am smiling when I am playing, which wasn't the case for a while, and I am happy on the pitch.
There was the [groin] problem and, generally, I wasn't happy. It was a mix of many things. You could tell.
I have felt a lot better for a week or so now. I am smiling when I am playing, which wasn't the case for a while, and I am happy on the pitch,' Yamal said. Opponents sometimes play two or three players against Yamal.
I'm scoring more goals all the time. At 16 people already want you to score 100 goals already and it's difficult. ... I want to score more as well, but it's not always possible.
Manager Hansi Flick said Yamal lacked confidence in one-on-one situations at times. 'The opponent sometimes they play two or three players against him. You could feel he had not the confidence at times, the dynamic for this one against one situation.
I am happy for today, it has to give him confidence, and when he enjoys playing, it's perfect for him and also for us,' Flick stated. Barcelona are seeking to become the first Spanish champions since 2019 to retain their crown.