At solely 18 years outdated, Lamine Yamal has already turn out to be the standout identify for each FC Barcelona and the Spanish nationwide group. The younger winger has began the season in spectacular kind, tallying two objectives and one help in his first three LaLiga matches. Now on worldwide responsibility, Yamal spoke to Spanish outlet RTVE about his objectives, challenges, and ambitions as Spain prepares for clashes towards Bulgaria and Turkey.
Yamal didn’t shrink back from talking about his final ambitions. “Successful the Champions League with Barcelona could be unbelievable,” he mentioned. “Each participant needs to win the Ballon d’Or, and anybody who says in any other case is mendacity. To even be in that dialog at simply 18 years outdated is one thing to worth, and hopefully someday it occurs.”
When requested who deserves the Ballon d’Or if not him, Yamal pointed to 2 acquainted names: “Neymar deserves one. Throughout his time at Barcelona and Paris, he ought to have gained it. And clearly Messi, as a result of he’s one of the best in historical past.”
Responding to Flick’s criticism
Barcelona supervisor Hansi Flick publicly voiced his frustration after a 1-1 draw towards Rayo Vallecano at Vallecas, criticizing the group’s efficiency. “We want extra depth, fewer errors, and fewer complacency. The ego may kill the success, we´ve to be a group. With the standard we have now, there aren’t any excuses. If we need to win titles, we have now to point out it each match,” Flick mentioned.
Yamal responded with maturity: “It’s extra about not beginning with the identical depth we completed final season with than about egos within the locker room. We’ve taken seven factors out of 9 in powerful stadiums, however folks don’t speak about that. Flick is correct that we made errors, however that occurs. It’s not about egos—we simply have to get again to our stage.”
Staying grounded amid fame
Regardless of his fast rise, Yamal acknowledged the challenges of being within the highlight. “Recently, there’s been extra speak about what I do off the sphere than on it. If I had been nonetheless at Mataró, no person would care about my celebration. However I don’t take note of that. I solely hearken to my circle—the individuals who actually know me. That’s what helps me keep targeted. You’ll by no means hear that Lamine is comfortable or unhappy due to what another person mentioned.”
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Is Barcelona too depending on Lamine Yamal? Coach Hansi Flick addresses subject after shut name vs. Rayo Vallecano
A united younger core at Barcelona
Yamal additionally highlighted the robust bond amongst Barça’s younger skills, mentioning Nico and Fermín particularly. “We’re a younger, united group. If anybody leaves, it’s their very own resolution. No person right here needs to go. We even joke with Fermín about England, however he informed us he needs to remain.”
Huge objectives with Spain
His rise has additionally prolonged to the nationwide group, the place he grew to become one in all Spain’s youngest-ever gamers. “I didn’t count on to hitch the nationwide group so younger. However we have now a squad able to being world champions. Every thing will depend on our focus.”
Yamal credited supervisor Luis de la Fuente for his help: “I’m very grateful. He’s one of many individuals who has defended me most, with the appropriate phrases on the proper time. I’ll all the time be grateful for that.”
