For the last few weeks, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams have been the two subjects being discussed the most in news related to FC Barcelona. Both these players were key for Spain as they won the UEFA EURO 2024, and they have increased their values significantly with their performances in this international tournament.
The latest individual associated with the Catalan club to comment on these two individuals was the former forward, Hristo Stoichkov. The former Ballon d’Or winner talked to SPORT in an interview, and talked about different things taking place at the Catalan club.
When asked about whether he was surprised with the performances that Yamal is putting in at his age, the Barcelona legend commented: “When you pursue your dreams, they can always come true. He’s a kid who knows perfectly well that this is his big opportunity despite his young age.”
“He’s disciplined, sacrifices a lot during the 90 minutes, and when the coach substitutes him, he doesn’t hesitate. Nico Williams is the same, getting better every day; he’s very dangerous on the counterattack.”
However, the former footballer also argued that Yamal should not get too much in the spotlight for now, and should also not be compared to other great footballers:
“Let’s not compare them. I have never liked comparing; each one is unique, and I hope that Lamine continues with this rhythm of sacrifice and quality, and keeps working. That’s why he’s scoring goals with Barcelona and Spain.”
“He’s a kid we need to protect, not put on a pedestal because it’s very easy to fall. I’m in favor of protecting him; we need to give him the time he needs, and when he has more experience, we can then make judgments.”
Hristo Stoichkov was also clear that Barcelona should not hesitate to sign Yamal’s national teammate, Nico Williams:
“We need to buy him now. I already told you that I recommended to the people at Barcelona that they buy him. They didn’t, and now they want him. Laporta and Deco shouldn’t doubt that he’s a player for Barcelona.”
“Not only can he play as a winger, but also on the other wing, as a central forward, or a false ‘9’. He can make a big difference at Barça.”
The former forward was also confident that Barcelona would be able to compete with Real Madrid, despite the latter becoming significantly stronger this summer:
“I am always optimistic. The worse things get, the more optimistic we have to be. Now, with a new stadium, we need to build a competitive team. I believe Laporta and Deco know which players they will sign. With the new coach, we will see a team with more discipline and order, step by step.”
“We have young players of great quality: Cubarsí, Pedri, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, Fermín, Balde… all young, and if Nico Williams comes, he would be another great addition. There’s no need to rush to win the Champions League tomorrow. If a couple of signings are made, I think the team can compete at a very high level.”
Lastly, Hristo Stoichkov also believed that Flick has the tools to be a successful manager at Barcelona:
“I don’t know, honestly. We’ll see. Whether he adapts or not depends on what’s inside the locker room. I’m sure he has a lot of discipline; he’s German. Plus, he has a very important factor, as Ter Stegen is in the locker room.”
“He can help him a lot, as can Gündogan. And even more so if Thiago Alcántara is by his side. These are small factors that can help in the long run.”
Note: The player’s value (€70m) is sourced from Transfermarkt’s portal as of the publication date of this article.
