Lamine Yamal ‘had what other kids didn’t,’ says his former Barcelona youth team coach
Lamine Yamal, 18, did not start Spain’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde on Tuesday, sitting on the bench despite being in 'perfect condition.' His former Barcelona youth coach highlighted Yamal’s unique talent, while Spain manager Luis de la Fuente confirmed Yamal is prepared for a limited role. Analysts emphasize Spain’s reliance on Yamal and Nico Williams amid a slow start to the tournament.
What changed
Yamal was subbed off the bench in Spain’s 7-0 win over Cape Verde, with sources now confirming his readiness for short-term play and the reasons behind his non-start.
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Spain bench Yamal in World Cup opener; coach calls him 'ready for limited minutes'
confidence 95%Lamine Yamal, 18, did not start Spain’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde on Tuesday, sitting on the bench despite being in 'perfect condition.' His former Barcelona youth coach highlighted Yamal’s unique talent, while Spain manager Luis de la Fuente confirmed Yamal is prepared for a limited role. Analysts emphasize Spain’s reliance on Yamal and Nico Williams amid a slow start to the tournament.
What's confirmed:
- Spain manager Luis de la Fuente stated Yamal is 'ready to play a few minutes' in the World Cup opener against Cape Verde, though he did not start the match.
- Yamal came on as a substitute in Spain’s 7-0 victory over Cape Verde, marking his first appearance in the tournament.
- A former Barcelona youth coach described Yamal as having 'what other kids didn’t,' emphasizing his exceptional talent and early achievements, including three La Liga titles and a European Championship with Spain.
- Spain’s World Cup opener saw Yamal and Nico Williams limited to substitute roles, with analysts noting their absence contributed to Spain’s lack of spark in the match.
- Yamal was in 'perfect condition' for the World Cup, according to Spain’s head coach, despite not starting the opener.
- Spain’s performance against Cape Verde has intensified focus on Yamal’s and Williams’ roles, with pundits suggesting their absence weakened the team’s attacking output.
Still unconfirmed:
- Spain may rely on Yamal for short bursts of play in upcoming matches, though his exact role remains uncertain beyond the opener.