New Delhi, Jan. 8 -- Barcelona's Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Athletic Club kicked off with a major talking point, the decision to bench star winger Lamine Yamal. Manager Hansi Flick addressed the situation in his pre-match comments, reassuring fans that the 18-year-old prodigy is in good shape despite missing group training earlier in the week.

Lamine Yamal, a key figure in Barcelona's attacking lineup, skipped Tuesday's training session due to a minor physical issue, reportedly a stomach virus that left him feeling under the weather. While he was expected to recover in time to start, Hansi Flick chose caution over risk. The German coach opted for a fresh attacking trio of Roony Bardghji, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres, with Robert ...