Hansi Flick: Pedri 'makes everyone better' — not Lamine Yamal

Barcelona kept up their La Liga title pursuit with a gritty 1-0 victory at San Mamés, where Lamine Yamal's strike proved decisive. Athletic had largely contained Barça's attacking threat until Pedri found Yamal, who cut inside and finished via the far post.

Flick highlighted the impact of Pedri, who came on at half-time for Marc Bernal. The coach said Pedri 'makes everyone better', shifting control of the central areas, connecting play and easing the burden on attacking outlets like Dani Olmo.

Despite that praise, Flick was also full of appreciation for Yamal. "He didn’t play his best game, but his goal decided it," the manager said, adding that winning when not at your best is the mark of a special talent.

The coach pointed to the squad's unity after the match and said the celebrations showed a side pulling together. With several key players finding rhythm and a Champions League clash against Newcastle looming, Flick said he is optimistic about the remainder of the campaign.

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