With Barcelona facing a defining night against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, the emphasis has inevitably landed on the players expected to perform under pressure.
Among them is teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, whom former Barcelona star Ivan Rakitic has defended and supported.
Yamal has been at the center of controversy in the lead-up to the match due to recent comments and on-field behavior.
However, Rakitic was quick to dismiss the hubbub, emphasizing the need of mental toughness in such high-stakes situations.
“We know which matches are special, and you prepare every little detail with a bit more care.”
At the same time, the Croatian stressed that joy should not be lost in the process.
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“Never forget to enjoy yourself and be happy, because there’s a lot of pressure, but there are millions of people who would love to be in your shoes.”
Drawing inspiration from previous European nights.
Barcelona is looking for something special in this game, and Rakitic cited past comebacks against PSG as inspiration.
“The thrill we all felt during the comeback against PSG—not just Barça fans—was unexplainable, even unique.
“Hopefully, there will be more nights like that for Barça, the kind that stay with you for a lifetime.”
He believes that the team’s mindset must be defined by its sense of belief.
“Barça has previously demonstrated that they can score more than two goals. Even if they play perfectly, there is little space for error.
“And now is the time for the greatest players. “Barça has many key players, and now is their time.”
Strong defense of Lamine Yamal
Naturally, the talk shifted to Yamal, and Rakitic lent his full support.
He emphasized the need of letting the child to express himself freely while accepting responsibility.
“With Lamine, we need to let him enjoy himself, dance, and do his thing, but I also want him to take responsibility.
“Normally, you don’t have to tell young players as much, but Lamine has reached a point where he expects a lot from himself and wants more, despite his youth.”
“And these are the matches where he can grow a great deal, and Barça needs him more than ever.”
“He has had that ‘flow’ since his debut. I believe that is the right word. I’m not really modern; I’m more old-school, but that’s football these days, Reported By Sports.
“These things are part of the game, but what matters is what happens on the pitch afterwards, and he’s delivering there – we can’t ask for much more.”
He also mentioned the lack of a crucial supporter, which could have an impact on his performance. “I believe Lamine misses Raphinha.
Trusting Flick and critical absences
Rakitic expressed trust that Hansi Flick and his colleagues will correctly guide the youngster.
“Hansi and his staff certainly have him under control, but guys with that sort of skill require that joy and peace of mind.
“It is not a matter of justifying (his behavior) because of his youth. He needs to express himself in that way, and the key thing is that he keeps giving his all on the field.”
Returning to the action, Rakitic agreed Atletico had the lead but cautioned against complacency.
“With the result from the first leg, have everything in their favour, although Cholo and the fans won’t be at ease for a moment.”
Finally, he pondered on the first leg dynamics, explaining:
“I would have expected Atletico to push a bit harder in the closing stages of the first leg, though without taking any major risks, to score a third; and Barça, down to ten men, had more chances.”
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