Yamal speaks out about the mistake at age 18 that caught public attention.

On the eve of the World Cup, Lamine Yamal makes headlines by openly addressing the pressures of reputation and significant duties even at the age of 18.

After winning the Euro 2024 championship, Lamine Yamal enters the most explosive phase of his career. The Barcelona star is almost certain to join the Spanish national team for his first World Cup if he avoids injury. Notably, the 18-year-old player does not view this as an experimental stage, but rather as a goal to affirm his top-tier status.

Over the past three seasons, Yamal has made rapid strides. Given an opportunity by Xavi at just 15 years old, he quickly broke numerous records and became a key figure in Spain's European championship journey. In a short time, from a "prodigy," Yamal has become the new symbol for both his club and the national team. And continuing on that path, his World Cup ambition is now clearly emerging.

Even though Barcelona recently stopped in the Champions League quarter-finals against Atlético Madrid, Yamal's individual performance still left a strong impression. He is now the focal point in the Catalan team's gameplay, demonstrating remarkable maturity both in skill and competitive courage, despite his youth.

At the club level, Yamal currently inherits the iconic number 10 jersey. After 44 matches across all competitions, he has scored 23 goals and provided 18 assists, playing a major role in helping Barcelona lead La Liga with a 9-point gap over Real Madrid. With the domestic title almost within reach, the left-footed player's focus is gradually shifting toward the planet's biggest stage.

Speaking at the Laureus awards ceremony, Yamal could not hide his excitement about the World Cup: “I am very excited. Since childhood, I dreamed of playing in the World Cup, seeing my mother in the stands, representing the national team… The next two months will pass quickly, and of course I hope we become champions.” This statement clearly reveals the young talent's desire to conquer.

Additionally, Yamal also candidly spoke about the pressure accompanying fame: “It’s hard to realize that it’s a big responsibility and you cannot make mistakes, because you are a role model for many children. But I see it as a positive thing. So, every time I speak, I try to say it in a constructive way and help as many people as possible. With that mindset, I can make mistakes, but I am only 18 years old.” Closing the ceremony, he was honored as the year's best young athlete, affirming his rising status and ambitious World Cup dream.

With his outstanding form in Barcelona's colors and increasingly solid position in the Spanish national team, Lamine Yamal is no longer just a "promising young talent" but is ready to become the leader. The upcoming World Cup is therefore not just a milestone, but also a stage for him to realize his greatest ambition: leading Spain to conquer the world's summit.