Rodri reveals support for Lamine Yamal after Barcelona debut

Rodri made his Barcelona debut, then found himself discussing Lamine Yamal’s mood. At this club, even a new midfielder’s first appearance comes with an update on the number ten.

Speaking after the 2-0 win over Athletic Club, Rodri explained that the team had been trying to support the winger.

“We tried to lift his spirits,” he said, according to Mundo Deportivo’s account of his comments.

The midfielder praised Yamal’s performance despite his failure to score. In his DAZN interview, Rodri also stressed the importance of consistency and work rate. He remains confident that Yamal’s ability will produce goals. Barça Blaugranes published further comments from the interview.

The discussion follows Yamal’s unhappy appearance after being substituted against Elche. Hansi Flick subsequently explained that the winger had a headache and was still rebuilding his sharpness after limited preparation. The coach also described his reluctance to come off as understandable.

Rodri’s comments do not establish a dressing-room dispute. They describe teammates offering encouragement.

The debutant is still finding his own rhythm, too. He said the unusually long summer had left him needing to get up to speed quickly. He welcomed his first minutes and the victory without claiming to be fully ready.

Rodri is learning how Barcelona play. He is also discovering how much attention one expression on Yamal’s face can attract.