Lamine Yamal admits he can do better after Barcelona held by Rayo Vallecano

The 18-year-old continued his strong start to the season with another goal contribution, but said he was far from satisfied with either his own display or the team's performance.

Yamal's penalty, awarded in controversial circumstances while VAR was out of action, ensured Barcelona left Madrid with a point. It was his fourth goal involvement in just three La Liga matches, taking his tally to two goals and two assists.

Despite that return, the teenager made it clear he expects more. "I can be better. I am not in my peak. The stats are very good, but I don't care. I want to feel better on the pitch," he said after the match.

Barcelona, who sit fourth in the table with seven points, were unable to replicate the intensity of last season's title-winning form.

Yamal underlined that the upcoming international break could help the squad reset. "After the international break, we will try to win as many matches as possible, play as we always have, and return to our philosophy, which we haven't fully shown in this match. But anyway, we will rest now and come back stronger," he added.

Head coach Hansi Flick has spoken in recent weeks about the need for his side to adapt quickly under his leadership. Club sources have indicated he intends to use the break to refine tactical details and continue integrating younger talents such as Yamal and Fermín Lopez into his plans.

Barcelona return to action on 14 September against Valencia before beginning their Champions League campaign away to Newcastle United at St James' Park, a match that will provide Flick with an early test of his European credentials.

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