“He’ll mark an era for sure” - Espanyol boss Manolo Gonzalez waxes lyrical over ‘gifted’ Lamine Yamal ahead of Barcelona derby
Barcelona have made a flying start under new head coach Hansi Flick, as they currently sit atop the La Liga table after nine games. At the core of their success is 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, who was recently lauded by Espanyol manager Manolo Gonzalez.
Espanyol, having recently earned promotion back to Spain’s top division, are currently in 14th place. They’ve also had a solid start to the season, with three victories already, and are preparing for their first derby against Barcelona on November 3.
This highly anticipated fixture is steeped in history between the two clubs. Amidst the rivalry between the teams, Gonzalez took a moment to praise Yamal, whom he considers to be on a “different level” compared to other players.
“Lamine is a gifted player. If he’s got his head right, he’ll mark an era for sure. He is a different player. This boy is very prepared. At a different level,” Gonzalez told La Porteria (via Barca Universal).
Yamal has already established himself as one of the most effective wingers in the world at just 17 years old. Though he made his debut in the 2022-23 season, it was really last season when he broke into Barcelona’s first-team under Xavi.
However, it was during the recent Euros that he truly grabbed the spotlight. Yamal’s electrifying pace, combined with his ability to dribble past defenders and deliver dangerous crosses from the right flank, played a crucial role in Spain’s success.
For his performances, he was named the UEFA European Championship’s Young Player of the Tournament, while he also finished with the most assists in the competition (4).
Under Hansi Flick, the Spaniard has seemingly taken his output to another level, as he has already registered five goals and five assists in just 11 games. Espanyol will certainly be wary of his threat when they face their old rivals.
Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal faces injury concern
Yamal was named in Spain’s squad for their Nations League matches against Denmark and Serbia but appeared to sustain an injury during their 1-0 win over Denmark. As a result, he withdrew from the squad ahead of the next game.
Barcelona fans will be concerned, given his importance to the team. The club stated that he is suffering from a strain in his left hamstring, and his return to training will depend on how he progresses during recovery.
La Roja manager Luis de la Fuente, while praising Yamal, also suggested that the referee failed to protect the players.
“The referee has to protect these talented players, but Lamine has to get used to it,” said De la Fuente.
"Lamine displayed an exceptional attitude and generated a lot for us from the right flank. He has a special talent. I had a teammate who used to say: ‘What do you want, kisses [from the opponents]?’ Teams will use the weapons they can within the rules." (via BBC)
After the break, Barcelona will face Sevilla in La Liga, followed by two major fixtures - first against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, and then the El Clasico against Real Madrid. Flick will undoubtedly be hoping for Yamal’s return to action in time for these crucial matches.