“The ball is his friend, even a brother” - Manchester United legend Eric Cantona offers opinion on Barcelona ace Lamine Yamal
Manchester United legend Eric Cantona has heaped praise on Barcelona ace Lamine Yamal. The 17-year-old Spaniard started playing for Barca's senior team in 2023 and has recorded seven goals and 10 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions for the Catalan club.
Eric Cantona expressed his admiration for Yamal and said (via Barca Universal):
"I love the way Spain play and it’s good to have this type of player, because you never know what he’s (Lamine Yamal) going to do. He surprises everyone every time. He has great vision, great technique and makes the right decisions. I love him. Sometimes I watch a game just to watch a player."
While heaping praise on the La Masia graduate, Cantona also shared some advice for Lamine Yamal:
"I would say they have to enjoy football, have passion for the game. And really love the game. The ball is a friend, and it’s so wonderful to have this relationship with the ball. The ball is not an enemy. Too many players feel that the ball is a kind of enemy."
"But when you see Lamine Yamal, you really feel that the ball is his friend. Even a brother," added the Frenchman.
Lamine Yamal scored one goal and provided four assists for Spain in their triumphant run at the 2024 European Championships.
Manchester United reportedly interested in signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong this summer
Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong this summer, according to Barca Universal. The 27-year-old has reportedly been on the Red Devils' list since Erik ten Hag took charge as head coach in 2022.
The Manchester United head coach, who coached Frenkie de Jong for two seasons during their time at AFC Ajax, is reportedly fond of the Dutch midfielder. De Jong is currently recovering from an ankle injury and is unlikely to start pre-season training anytime soon, as per reports.
Frenkie de Jong arrived at Camp Nou in 2019 and has netted 17 goals and provided 21 assists in 213 appearances for Barcelona.