"We will see on the pitch if we are young and inexperienced" - Lamine Yamal provides response to Germany icon's claim ahead of Euro 2024 clash
Barcelona winger and Euro 2024 star Lamine Yamal has responded to German icon Jens Lehmann's claim that the Spanish team is inexperienced. The former German goalkeeper made the comments in the build-up to the Spain vs. Germany quarterfinal clash on Friday, July 5.
La Roja head into the game as slight favorites as they are the only team with a 100 percent record in the competition. They are also unbeaten against the hosts in their last four meetings.
Lamine Yamal, who has been a shining light for Spain in the ongoing tournament, wasn't bothered by Lehmann's claim that La Roja are "small and inexperienced." Responding to the comments, he said (via Barca Universal):
"Lehmann said Spain are inexperienced? What will he say… He is German and wants to help his team, but well, we have already said that all these things help us to be more motivated. In the end, we will see on the pitch if we are young and inexperienced."
Lamine Yamal has made four appearances for Spain in the ongoing European Championships, providing two assists.
Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal urged to get on the scoresheet at Euro 2024 by Nico Williams
Lamine Yamal's international teammate Nico Williams has urged the Barcelona starlet to find the back of the net soon for the national team at Euro 2024. The 16-year-old has been one of the standout players at the tournament, but is yet to score himself.
Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, who scored in Spain's 4-1 win over Georgia in the Round of 16, teased Yamal, saying (via Express):
"This week I think he's going to have to put up with me because he hasn't scored. I hope that next time he can shut me up. We challenge each other and we complement each other very well."
Lamine Yamal is focused on the next game at Euro 2024, while realising that Williams is going to be difficult to deal with after he scored for La Roja. He said:
"(Williams) is going to be a bit of a pain. I've already told him not to start, to think about the next game... and that's it, I'm very happy for him and that he scored."
La Roja will hope they can get past the hosts in what looks to be a tough quarterfinal clash and claim the trophy for the fourth time in their history.