Lamine Yamal's recent lack of smiles has reportedly been driven by frustration with his own performances, rather than any problem with Barcelona or his teammates.
The 19 year old Barcelona forward has returned from the World Cup determined to reach an even higher level, with people close to the player saying he believes he should be performing better despite already playing an important role in Spain's tournament triumph.
That helps put his recent demeanour into context after Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was asked about Yamal's mood.
Yamal Wanted More From Himself
According to a report cited by The Athletic, Yamal's subdued demeanour earlier in the season was simply because he felt he was capable of doing more.
Although the teenager contributed to Spain's World Cup success, he reportedly did not produce the individual breakthrough moment that many expected from him during the tournament.
His own assessment of his recent performances has also been demanding.
Rather than being satisfied with his achievements so far, Yamal wants to continue improving and become an even more decisive player for both club and country.
Flick Has Backed His Young Star
Flick recently played down concerns over Yamal's lack of smiles, reminding reporters that players do not have to be happy every day.
The Barcelona coach also pointed to the circumstances surrounding Yamal's return.
After playing at the World Cup, the winger had only three weeks of holiday before returning to training with Barcelona.
The manager was much happier with Yamal's performance against Athletic Club, where he completed 90 minutes and showed flashes of the level Barcelona have come to expect from him.
Flick has also been encouraged by what he has seen from the youngster in training.
The Ambition Behind the Frustration
Yamal's reported frustration can therefore be viewed from another perspective.
He is not simply trying to maintain the level that made him one of football's most exciting young players.
His ambition is reportedly much greater... he wants to become the leading player for his teams and ultimately establish himself as the best player in the world.
That mentality could become an important part of his development.
At 19, Yamal already carries enormous expectations, but his desire to judge himself against the highest possible standard could also help drive him forward.
For Barcelona, the priority will be ensuring that ambition remains productive rather than becoming an unnecessary burden.
Yamal has already shown that he can influence major matches.
What Flick and Barcelona will want now is for the youngster to regain his rhythm, enjoy his football and turn his high expectations into consistent performances.
His recent mood, therefore, may say less about a problem at Barcelona and more about how demanding Yamal has become of himself.