Club football is currently on a break with many FC Barcelona first-team players representing their nations at the international level. Hansi Flick meanwhile will be working towards succeeding in a difficult schedule that his team faces from October 20.
Facing Bayern Munich and Real Madrid in back-to-back games with a gap of less than 4 days is not going to be an easy task. If Barcelona were to emerge triumphant in both these challenges, it would not happen without the help of Lamine Yamal.
The 17-year-old Barcelona youngster is currently on international duty with Spain where he is one of the first names on the teamsheet under Luis de la Fuente. He played a crucial role in securing the Euros for his nation back in the summer.
Luis de la Fuente has now taken this opportunity to talk about Lamine Yamal. As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, here is what he had to say: “It’s a common trait of this type of player. When you see that he has that special touch, I say he’s blessed by that divine spark, something different…”
De La Fuente in particular pointed out the player’s maturity, revealing that he belies his age. He continued:
“These are players who, at 17, are nothing like other kids their age. They are much more mature, with a significant level of responsibility, able to understand and embrace any plan or situation you propose to them because they are brilliant.”
The Spain head coach also added a layer of caution to Lamine’s situation, adding that he has seen players go downwards with time and that Lamine must be careful in his development. He said:
“But I’ve also seen players like this who have fallen off the path. He shouldn’t make the mistake of wanting to move faster than he should, as that could ruin things. It’s essential to manage not just how well they play football, but also the countless other details that are truly important.”
Lamine Yamal is one of the highest-rated footballers in the world and is rated at a massive €150m. He is the second-highest-valued player in Barcelona history. The 17-year-old is breaking records left, right, and center.
At such a young age, Lamine has emerged as an indispensable asset for club and country. However, as De La Fuente says, he must keep his feet on the ground and continue working hard. With time, he has the potential to become one of the best in the game, and let’s see how he develops.
