UCL: Yamal Targets Champions League Glory as Barcelona Vice-Captain
Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has made winning the UEFA Champions League his main target this season after being named one of the club’s vice-captains at the age of 19. Speaking ahead of Barcelona’s opening league-phase fixture against Feyenoord at Camp Nou on Wednesday, Yamal said the Champions League remains his biggest motivation after the club’s recent struggles in the competition. “There’s no greater motivation than the Champions League, which is the one I still have to win. We will give our all to win it,” the Spain international said. Yamal was recently elected by his teammates as one of three vice-captains, alongside Eric Garcia and Frenkie de Jong, while coach Hansi Flick selected Raphinha and Pedri to complete the five-man captaincy group. Yamal said he was proud of the responsibility and grateful to his teammates, despite being only 19. His appointment makes him the fifth player in Barcelona’s captaincy order and puts him among the youngest players to hold a leadership role at the club.
Yamal enters the Champions League campaign in impressive form after scoring twice in Barcelona’s 5-0 victory over Valencia on Sunday, maintaining the club’s perfect start to the LaLiga season. Barcelona are seeking to end an 11-year wait for another Champions League title, having last lifted the trophy in 2015. The Catalan giants came close in 2025 but were eliminated by Inter Milan in a dramatic semi-final that went to extra time. They have also suffered early exits in recent European campaigns, raising questions over whether Flick’s attacking style needs adjustments against top European opposition. Flick has said Barcelona will adapt when necessary while retaining the playing philosophy that has delivered success over the past two seasons. As the club begins another European campaign against Feyenoord, Yamal will be hoping his new leadership role and strong form can help Barcelona mount a serious challenge for their first Champions League crown since 2015.
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