'I was very surprised by the affection he has for everyone' - Lamine Yamal impressed by Hansi Flick's leadership skills at Barcelona

Lamine Yamal has described his relationship with Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick and explained why he was thoroughly impressed with the German manager's personality and leadership skills. Yamal also indirectly highlighted how Flick has played a part in helping him become one of world's best players at just 17 years of age.

It is well-known that Flick really admires Yamal and has been very protective of one of his most effective players. Whether it's taking Yamal off a bit early when the game has been put to bed to afford him some rest, or singing his praises in press conferences, Flick has brought his managerial acumen to the fore.

Despite the fact that the former Bayern Munich manager is more than three times Yamal's age, the La Masia graduate feels no awkwardness with his head coach. Yamal also mentioned that Flick shows the same level of affection and care for all of his players.

"Very good from the start," Yamal began when Mundo Deportivo asked him about his relationship with Flick.

"Before I came here in the summer, he was at the Euros and I was talking to him. Honestly, I was really surprised by the affection he has for all of us; he tries to talk to everyone," he added.

"He tries to explain the reasons behind things, whether he’s substituting you or you’re not playing. Anything. He tries to explain things. He makes an effort to ensure we’re all doing well, and I think he’s one of the best coaches I’ve had. I haven’t had many so far, but honestly, he’s a ten."

The 17-year-old will be expected to feature in the starting lineup in Barcelona's next game on Saturday, February 22, when they visit Canary Islands to take on Las Palmas in what appears to be a tricky LaLiga fixture.