Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has backed Barcelona teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to become ‘a historic player’.
The Golden Boy winner has dazzled on the international scene, and was crowned the best young player at the 2024 European Championship as he led his country to victory.
Yamal also has 17 caps for the 2010 World Cup winners and while he is currently preparing for the UEFA Nations League quarterfinal doubleheader against Netherlands, De La Fuente believes the wonderkid possesses the quality to become the best in the coming years.
“Lamine Yamal is in the position to become an amazing player, and he has the potential to be a different player, based on his quality, his self-confidence and his courage,” he said.
“I am lucky to be able to have him with us. We will help him become the football player that he has the potential to be. We will do our best to ensure that things are not difficult for him.
I am sure that we will be able to appreciate an amazing player. If he remains injury-free, I am sure that we will witness a historic player.”
The La Masia product has been one of the best players in the world this season and has already contributed to 13 goals and 17 assists in 38 matches in all competitions this season.
He finished eighth in his inaugural Ballon D’or appearance in 2024, while also clinching the Kopa trophy for the best young player in the world.
“You tend to twist the things that I say, but I have said many times already that Lamine is only 17 years old, and we must not forget that,” De La Fuente continued.
“He is still in development and a lot has to happen, and he will go through difficult moments. This is when he will need help and assistance.
It is not to criticise him, it is just part of the process because he is only 17.”
Yamal will hope to add to his tally of three goals for Spain, as they continue the defense of their Nations League title against Netherlands later today.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
