Lamine Yamal may be sidelined at the start of Spain’s World Cup campaign, but the Barcelona star is doing everything possible to ensure he can still play a major role in the tournament.
The teenage sensation has been working hard on his recovery after suffering a hamstring injury, with his focus fixed on returning to action as soon as possible.
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In a recent interview released by the Spanish Football Federation, Yamal spoke about the injury, his World Cup ambitions and the mentality that has helped him rise to the top of world football at such a young age.
On injury and World Cup dream
Reflecting on the moment he suffered the injury, Yamal admitted that his immediate concern was the upcoming World Cup.
“I remember the moment I got injured. I was praying inside that it wasn’t anything serious, that it was just a strain or something like that, because the World Cup was just around the corner and I knew that a hamstring injury – even though I’d never had one before – wouldn’t be a quick fix.
“I was afraid it might be serious, especially that it might not be serious but could flare up again and cause me to miss the World Cup.”
The Barcelona forward explained that the prospect of representing Spain on football’s biggest stage has given him extra motivation during his rehabilitation.
“It’s also true that it helps that you’re going to play in a World Cup and your mind is as if you hadn’t played a single match all season, and I’m really looking forward to making my debut.”
Career development
Yamal also reflected on how quickly his career has developed over the past few years.
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“In my mind, it’s as if I’ve been playing football for 10 years, but in reality it’s only been three. Four years ago, I was playing with them at the local sports ground.”
Continuing on that journey, he added, “So, a lad who was playing with you three years ago is now set to play in a World Cup. It must be absolutely mad.”
When discussing the possibility of lifting football’s most prestigious trophy, Yamal admitted it is something he has imagined countless times.
“A thousand times in my bedroom or when we won a match at the local pitch. The World Cup is the biggest thing in football.”
Beyond his talent, it is Yamal’s mentality that continues to separate him from most players his age. The Barcelona attacker made it clear that he embraces expectations rather than avoids them.
Lamine Yamal is confident in Spain’s chances at the World Cup. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
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“I perform better when the demands are higher; you raise your game. If my standards were the same as another player’s, I might not be at this level.
“I like it that way; I see it as a challenge and I enjoy it.”
Spain’s World Cup chances
The youngster also expressed confidence in Spain’s chances at the tournament and highlighted the quality throughout the squad.
“The moment has finally arrived. Ever since the European Championship ended, we’ve all been looking forward to this day.
“We’re all really excited. We’re coming in as European champions and we’re going to give it our all.
“I am so excited because we’ve got a great squad and some really important players like Rodri, who’s the Ballon d’Or winner.
“Oyarzabal, who’s a top striker; Pedri, who I love watching play; Cucurella, who’s been a different player since the European Championship; and in goal we’ve got the three best keepers,” he added.
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