Lamine Yamal brings hope to Spain and praises Messi as 'the best of all time'
Spain's 18-year-old superstar Lamine Yamal talks about his admiration for Lionel Messi and hopes for a place in the starting line-up in the next World Cup match after a dismal start against Cape Verde.
Lamine Yamal had to watch from the sidelines during Spain's World Cup debut against Cape Verde, where the reigning European champions did not perform well. The young star, who turns 18, is close to returning to the starting lineup in the next stages of the tournament and praised Lionel Messi, whom he considers the best player of all time. Although it cannot be said that there is a crisis in the Spanish team after the goalless draw against Cape Verde, expectations were high for the tournament's favorite team. Yamal's physical state was an important factor as he did not travel to the United States in top form. Next Sunday, Spain will face Saudi Arabia, who drew with Uruguay in their debut. Yamal brought new energy after coming on in the second half against Cape Verde, and fans hope he can shine as a starter in the next match. "It's still early to play a full game, but I can start and play as many minutes as the coach wants," said the Barcelona striker in an interview with Spanish television. "I'm looking forward to going back because I feel good." The presence of Lamine Yamal as one of the stars of the team is reflected in the bookmakers' odds, which point to Spain as the favorite. In 2024, the young man was instrumental in Spain winning the Euro. "I know who I am and I want to stay calm. I will do my best," said Yamal, aware of his growing fame. He also acknowledged Messi's influence on his career, stating: "With every game, he proves that he is the best in the world. If anyone doubts that, it's because they have a personal problem with him. Neymar is my idol, but Messi is the best that ever lived." The Argentine star surprised again in the World Cup with a hat-trick against Algeria.
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