Hansi Flick addresses ‘leaked’ surprise by Lamine Yamal that mirrors one of his idols at Barcelona

Lamine Yamal is set to be one of the standout stars in one of the biggest games of the 2024–25 season, as FC Barcelona faces Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. Ahead of the clash, coach Hansi Flick addressed a surprise prepared by Yamal — one that has since been leaked and happens to mirror one of his childhood idols at the club.

Despite being only 17 years old, Yamal is preparing for yet another major occasion. During Friday’s pre-match press conference, Flick was asked about the young Spanish star’s rapid rise, and he hinted at something unexpected.

“Lamine Yamal is an incredible player, even with his age, just 17. I think he will be ready tomorrow, he prepared something. You will be surprised when you see the training now. He has something special for you,” the coach teased, building anticipation around Yamal.

However, the surprise didn’t stay under wraps for long. Yamal was spotted with his hair dyed blonde, a nod that immediately drew comparisons to his idol Neymar and the iconic hairstyle he sported during the 2016 season.

Barcelona held an open training session on Friday ahead of the final. Yamal initially tried to keep the reveal hidden by wearing a beanie, but as he boarded the team bus, the hair around his nape was visible, unintentionally leaking the surprise.

Another final in Lamine Yamal’s young career

Lamine Yamal made his debut for Barcelona at just 16 years old during the 2022–23 season and has since emerged as one of the brightest young talents in world soccer. Remarkably, he is now preparing to play in his third major final.

His first came at UEFA Euro 2024, where he provided an assist in Spain’s 2–1 victory over England. His second was in the Spanish Super Cup, where he scored in Barcelona’s commanding 5–2 win over Real Madrid. Now, less than 10 months later, Yamal has the chance to add another trophy to his young career and continue writing his name into the history books.