Xavi, the Barcelona manager, has included Yamal in the starting lineup for the La Liga match against Cadiz this Sunday. At just 16 years and 38 days old, Yamal, a youth international for Spain, will make history as the youngest player to commence a match in Spain’s top-tier league during the 21st century.
Instead of hastily labeling him as ‘the next’ someone, let’s pause and admire the innate skill and maturity he brings to his game.
Consistently making sound decisions even when facing a resilient opponent highlights Yamal’s exceptional ability—a rarity that warrants careful nurturing.
At the age of 16, it’s natural to anticipate youthful exuberance and fearlessness in his style of play. Although these qualities are certainly present in his game, his remarkably calm and serene approach to playing sets him apart, which is quite extraordinary for someone so young.
Yamal, a product of Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy, grabbed attention in the previous season with his debut for Barca against Real Betis in May. At just 15 years and 290 days old, he became the youngest player ever to represent the club in La Liga.
Yamal has been brought into the lineup to replace former Leeds winger Raphina, who received a red card during Barca’s scoreless draw with Getafe last week. Xavi is optimistic that his team will recover and secure their first league victory of the season.
Based on Sunday night’s performance, it’s difficult to dispute his choice. Two accurate shots, under different circumstances, might have secured him a well-deserved pair of goals.
To provide some context, Lamine was born four months after Leo Messi’s inaugural hat-trick for the club versus Real Madrid in March 2007. In football terms, he’s still a novice. Nonetheless, observing how he bewildered more seasoned defenders and left them helpless on multiple occasions marked, in my view, a pivotal juncture for this team.
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