Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old sensation of FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team, is gearing up for the UEFA Nations League clash against the Netherlands. In a recent interview with SPORT, Yamal reflected on his time with the national team and his relationship with teammates, including a well-wish to injured squad member Marc Casado.
“Very good, we have a very close relationship, everyone welcomes you very well in this team. I am very happy to see my teammates again, and now it is time to enjoy and play,” he said, expressing his excitement about returning to international competition after four months.
Casado, who made an impact during his debut for Spain, is currently sidelined due to a knee injury. Yamal shared: “After the match against Atletico Madrid, I asked him how he was going to the training camp, and he told me he needed to get an MRI because he had pain in his knee. I spoke with him yesterday (Monday) and I wrote to him to recover soon. We hope he recovers soon. We love him very much.” He lauded Casado for having an incredible first season, noting: “For it being his first season at the elite level, he was at a great level of play, providing assists.”
Despite the pressures of being a key player for both his club and country, Yamal emphasized his focus on enjoying the game. “I go out to enjoy myself and not think about this. I want to enjoy and have a good time, play football, which is what I do best,” he remarked, showing maturity beyond his years.
Yamal also cited the supportive environment fostered by both Spain’s manager, Luis de la Fuente, and Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick. He highlighted Flick's insistence on maintaining humility, stating, “They have told me so many times that they do not even repeat it to me anymore. It will only hurt you if you start believing you are the best at everything.”
On game day, he revealed his feelings regarding substitutions, admitting it’s common for players to feel upset when withdrawn. “That just shows that everyone wants to play,” Yamal noted. Yet, he took it in stride, understanding the nature of team dynamics. “A teammate comes in who, when you were on the field, wanted you to do well, and in the end, it is the same thing.”
As Spain prepares to face the Netherlands, which includes fellow Barça teammate Frenkie de Jong, Yamal expressed anticipation for the matchup. “I do not know how he is; he had stomach issues. When we found out we were playing the Netherlands, we talked about it. I wished him luck, and I am excited to play against him. He is a great player.”
Yamal reflects on his integration into Barcelona's squad, praising its unity. “It is something that can be seen. We are much more of a team than last year. Only Dani Olmo came in... we are many Spanish players forming a great family,” he explained, indicating a positive shift in team morale.
Coach Hansi Flick has been instrumental in this development, instilling a strong work ethic among players. “He has instilled in us that the most important thing is intensity,” Yamal stated, emphasizing teamwork and commitment to the club colors. Moreover, he appreciates Flick’s approachability, saying, “He is very approachable; he cares about everyone and explains everything,” underscoring the importance of communication in their development.
Life for Yamal has changed since leaving La Masia, Barcelona’s famed youth academy. He enjoys newfound freedom and a simpler lifestyle outside its confines. “At home, I can rest, I can visit my mother and father whenever I want. I have more freedom,” he explained, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining privacy during his time at the academy.
Transitioning to the demands of being a professional footballer, Yamal remains grounded. “You have to think about being a footballer and take care of yourself. No one will look after you more than yourself,” he says, indicating a commitment to maintaining focus amid the distractions of fame.
In light of upcoming Champions League matches, Yamal brushed off criticism regarding his goal-scoring rate. He clarified, “As long as they do not say I am in bad form or underperforming, they will always come up with something.” Regarding his physical evolution, he noted his increasing strength allows him to endure more taxing matches. “As I get stronger, I can withstand the battles on the field better,” he stated.
When it comes to facing rivals like Real Madrid in a potential Champions League final, Yamal remained confident, saying, “We do not fear anyone. We are the team that hurts Real Madrid the most, and they do the same to us.” His firm belief extends to Barcelona’s chances in the tournament. “If you do not believe you are the favourite, you have already started to lose,” he affirmed, underscoring the importance of self-belief in achieving success.
As Yamal prepares for his next match against the Netherlands on Thursday, he carries with him the hopes of the fans while embodying the future of Spanish football. His blend of talent, confidence, and humility bodes well for both his personal aspirations and those of FC Barcelona, as they aim for glory in both domestic and international competitions.
