Regardless of arriving as a veteran, Iñigo Martinez joined Barcelona and swiftly turned a key determine of their protection. His expertise contributed to securing three titles, witnessing the rise of 16-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal because the staff’s standout participant. Martinez shared insights into his relationship with the younger star, shedding gentle on Yamal’s distinctive mentality.
“I had a particular relationship with Lamine, which was mutual from the very starting. And it’s true that he noticed me as a task mannequin, like a father within the locker room… However I don’t assume he’s conscious of the burden he’s carrying, as a result of at 18, he’s a soccer participant who has to tug the staff collectively. I hope he continues like this, as a result of the day he realises it, it’ll weigh on him,” Iñigo Martinez stated, through Cope.
Lamine Yamal persistently excels amongst soccer’s elite, showcasing outstanding expertise towards seasoned veterans. At simply 18, he has amassed 27 objectives and 38 assists over 120 video games. Nonetheless, his affect extends past these spectacular stats as he dazzles along with his pace and knack for creating alternatives for teammates. Yamal stands out because the staff’s most influential participant, embracing the problem of main a brand new period in soccer with ease and confidence.
Following Ansu Fati’s departure, Lamine Yamal has embraced the long-lasting quantity 10 jersey at Barcelona, a legacy left by Lionel Messi. He shortly made his mark this season, securing a outstanding second place within the 2025 Ballon d’Or that underscores his capability to surpass established contenders. Within the 2025-26 season, Yamal goals to steer Barcelona to a long-awaited Champions League triumph, positioning the membership on the peak of worldwide soccer.
Inigo Martinez celebrates with Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona in the course of the Copa del Rey.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick opens up on Lamine Yamal’s position within the lineup
Upon his arrival in 2024, Hansi Flick confronted the problem of main a youthful Barcelona squad, notably that includes standouts Gavi and Pedri. Embracing the potential of his younger skills, Flick strategically centered his offensive technique round Lamine Yamal, whereas repositioning Raphinha as an attacking midfielder or left winger. Amid the final season, the German coach revealed the significance of the younger star within the lineup.
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“Lamine has change into indispensable for us. At simply 17 (now 18), he controls the rhythm, creates possibilities, and influences video games like a seasoned skilled. We’ve constructed a lot of our attacking mess around his capability to unlock defenses,” Hansi Flick stated, through press convention on December 2024.
Regardless of these statements from final season, Hansi stays dedicated to Lamine’s essential position within the lineup. Previous to his damage, Lamine began all 5 video games he was obtainable for, netting two objectives and offering 4 assists. His worth extends past scoring; his creativity and playmaking elevate your entire staff’s efficiency. Even when he owns an immense stress on him, he continues to shine within the international scene.
