Coach Fuente: 'Enjoy watching Yamal play like Messi'

Spain national team coach Luis de la Fuente has addressed the critics of his protégé Lamine Yamal.

In a recent interview on the channel Radiogaceta de los Deportes, Luis de la Fuente made notable remarks about his player Lamine Yamal.

Accordingly, Coach Fuente urged the media to celebrate Lamine Yamal’s football talent instead of focusing on his personal life, similar to how Lionel Messi has been treated.

Fuente stated: “Lamine is only 18 but very mature. He lives for football and knows how to overcome challenges, even having debuted for the national team at 16. People often highlight negative aspects, when they should be spreading the positive values that football brings.

Lamine shows self-sacrifice and great generosity… He is a football genius. We should focus on that rather than on buying cars, riding motorcycles, or appearing with girlfriends. Lamine has never done anything deserving criticism.

Ahead of him is a great role model. Yamal needs to learn everything Messi has achieved. I hope we will enjoy Yamal just as we have enjoyed Messi."

Notably, Fuente’s comments came amid attention on Yamal due to a relationship with Argentine singer Nicki Nicole and an investigation related to his 18th birthday party. Previously, the 2007-born rising star was often labeled as a rebellious young player known for unconventional behavior and frequent partying.

However, Yamal also faces pressure from constant comparisons to senior player Lionel Messi despite being only 18. This stems from his rapid rise over the past two years to become one of the world’s top stars, as well as being nominated for prestigious individual awards.

Currently, Yamal is considered one of the leading candidates for the 2025 Ballon d'Or, alongside Ousmane Dembele. Last season, Yamal was indispensable, scoring 21 goals and providing 26 assists in just 55 matches. His outstanding performance helped the Catalan club overcome rivals to complete a domestic treble.

Not only shining at club level, Yamal has also proven his worth for Spain. At 18, he is a key figure in coach Luis de la Fuente’s tactical system, playing a major role in leading La Roja to the 2025 UEFA Nations League final.

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