The main core of the recently successful Spanish National team included two key Barcelona players. One of them was a crucial midfielder for the team who helped maintain the tempo, and the other was an unbalancing winger who created havoc on the wings. Without these two Barcelona stars, Spain would perhaps not have tasted the success they did.
The midfielder in question was Pedri, who replicated the quality he showed in the previous edition of the European Championship to help Spain once again. As for the winger, 17-year-old Lamine Yamal is hardly a name that needs any introduction anymore.
However, even apart from the Barcelona boys, Spain’s entire team was built on synergy and cohesion. Unity was seen across the squad and that is ultimately what helped them cross the finish line in first place. Beating England in the final, with Yamal breaking many records in the process, Spain eventually became Euro champions once more.
Yet, after the final whistle and in the heat of celebration, some words of brotherly advice were also heard. As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, Manchester City star and the Best Player of the Tournament recipient Rodri made sure to give some touching advice to the young Barcelona winger:
“Keep working, brother, keep working, because you can achieve whatever you want.”
Touching words from a senior in the Spanish team and a very decorated midfielder at club level as well, it is clear that Rodri sees something special in Yamal.
The Barcelona wonderkid, described as ‘unbelievable’ by Ollie Watkins, who ended up winning the competition’s Young Player of the Tournament award, almost seems destined for greatness and both his rivals and teammates seem to acknowledge it.
Rodri’s words, however, were more than just praise in the heat of the moment. Instead, the 28-year-old defensive midfielder highlighted a key point that any young player should keep in mind.
By telling him to work hard, the player might have been implying to Yamal not to let the fame and success get to his head too early and too quickly.
Many young prodigies have often faded away because of this, even at Barcelona. Given the potential that Yamal possesses, Barça simply cannot afford to lose the almost limitless 17-year-old La Masia gem to any external problems. Only time will tell what his ceiling is, but Rodri’s words should ideally stick with him.
