Lamine Yamal believes Barcelona have a squad capable of competing at the highest level, despite the club’s unsuccessful attempt to sign Atletico de Madrid forward Julian Alvarez during the summer transfer window.
The Barcelona winger discussed the possibility of Alvarez strengthening the team and acknowledged the quality of the Argentina international. However, Yamal made clear that he is satisfied with the options already available to Barcelona.
“Alvarez is an excellent player, but I am happy with Barcelona’s squad,” Yamal said.
Barcelona had wanted to bring Alvarez to the club during the summer, but Atletico de Madrid refused to allow the forward to join a domestic rival. The attempted move therefore did not go ahead, leaving Alvarez with Atletico and Barcelona to continue with their existing squad.
The issue has nevertheless remained part of the discussion around Barcelona’s attacking options, particularly as the club were interested in adding another high-profile forward. Yamal’s comments suggest that the failed transfer has not affected his confidence in the players currently at the Catalan club.
Barcelona have made a perfect start to the Spanish La Liga season. After three rounds, they sit at the top of the table with nine points from nine available.
That record means Barcelona enter their next fixture as league leaders, with their early results providing a strong start to the campaign. Their fourth match will take them away from home to face Valencia.
The game is scheduled for 6 September and will begin at 17:15 Moscow time. It will give Barcelona the opportunity to maintain their winning record and extend the momentum that has placed them first in the standings after the opening three matches.
Alvarez, meanwhile, remains an Atletico de Madrid player after the capital club rejected Barcelona’s approach. Although Yamal regards the forward as an excellent player, his comments indicate that he does not believe Barcelona’s prospects depend on completing that particular deal.
For now, Barcelona’s focus is on their La Liga campaign and the visit to Valencia. With nine points already secured, the team will attempt to preserve its position at the top of the table in the fourth round.
Yamal’s assessment also underlines the contrast between Barcelona’s interest in Alvarez and the winger’s view of the current squad. The club explored the possibility of signing the forward, but Atletico de Madrid’s decision ensured that the transfer did not take place. Barcelona must therefore continue the season with the group of players already at their disposal.
The next test comes on 6 September, when the league leaders travel to Valencia.