• The controversy comes at the end of a season marked by clear dominance from Barcelona

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has expressed his dissatisfaction with young star Lamine Yamal’s decision to raise the Palestinian flag during the club’s La Liga title celebrations.

The incident took place during an open-top bus parade through the streets of Catalonia, where the 18-year-old, widely seen as the team’s breakout local star, appeared wrapped in and waving the Palestinian flag in front of tens of thousands of fans following a decisive victory over rivals Real Madrid.

Flick addresses Yamal’s gesture while respecting personal choice

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Flick was asked about the player’s political gesture and said he is generally not in favor of such actions, adding that this is not something he personally identifies with.

He noted that he had spoken to Yamal about the matter, stressing that the final decision ultimately rests with the player, especially given his young age.

Flick also emphasized the need to stay focused on football and meeting supporters’ expectations, describing the scenes during the celebrations as extraordinary, with emotional fans filling the streets to celebrate the title.

Yamal’s impact in a title-winning season and his social stance

The controversy closes a season in which Barcelona enjoyed clear domestic dominance, securing their 29th La Liga title under Flick.

Yamal played a key role in that success, particularly as the team struggled with multiple injuries to key players including Gavi, Pedri, and Frenkie de Jong. The young winger, who has roots linked to Morocco and Equatorial Guinea, has also previously used his social media platforms to express views on various social issues.