"He has been killing it" - Paul Pogba hails Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal as the 'best young player in the world'
Barcelona’s rising star, Lamine Yamal, has been making waves in the football world, and Paul Pogba is the latest to sing his praises. The French midfielder, who has shared the pitch with some of the game’s greatest talents, recently described the 17-year-old as "cold." He used the term express just how composed and lethal Yamal is under pressure.
The former Manchester United midfielder didn’t stop there, calling the teenager "the best young player in the world." He even suggested that the only thing missing for Yamal to solidify his place among the elite is winning the UEFA Champions League this season.
The comments come on the back of an extraordinary year for Yamal, whose talent has left both fans and pundits in awe. After playing a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, he has quickly become one of the most sought-after young players in world football.
Here's what the former Juventus player said (via Fabrizio Romano):
"Lamine Yamal is cold. He has been killing it, during the Euros and even since the start of this season. So, he’s nice, cold. He’s the best young player in the world. Can you imagine if he wins the Champions League this year?"
Yamal’s international debut came at just 16 years old, an age when most teenagers are still adjusting to life as professionals. Yet, the Barcelona wonderkid didn’t just show up at Euro 2024 — he delivered, playing a key role in Spain's dominant march to the tournament's title.
Lamine Yamal had a historic Euro 2024 campaign, becoming the youngest player in tournament history to appear, assist, and score in a match. The 17-year-old featured in all of Spain's seven games, starting six of them. He scored a goal in the semifinal against France, making him the youngest scorer in Euro history at 16 years and 362 days. He also managed four assists, the most in the tournament.
How has Lamine Yamal performed for Barcelona since making his senior debut?
Lamine Yamal has cemented himself as one of Barcelona’s most promising young talents, boasting an impressive record since joining the senior team. He made his senior debut for the club in 2023 at 15 years old. At just 17, the La Masia graduate has tallied 10 goals and 14 assists in 50 LaLiga appearances, contributing to the team’s attacking prowess.
This season has been particularly remarkable, with Yamal scoring five goals and delivering eight assists in just 12 matches across competitions. Known for his daring dribbles and creativity, Yamal has played 3,184 minutes for Barcelona, consistently influencing matches with his attacking flair and maturity beyond his years
As the Blaugrana compete at the top, Lamine Yamal's development signals a bright future for both the club and the player, who is quickly becoming a fan favorite.