Lamine Yamal, versatile enough to take on the roles of a central striker, an attacking midfielder, or even a right-sided winger, has just broken records.
The 16-year-old sensation has shattered previous age barriers, earning the title of the youngest player ever to secure a spot in Spain’s senior national squad.
Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s national team manager, has included this young gem in his line-up for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifying matches against both Georgia and Cyprus.
“Lamine has been an indispensable force in our junior squads. This is a young man with extraordinary footballing skills,” stated De la Fuente.
In last year’s Under-17 European Championships, Yamal showcased his talents, tying for the title of the tournament’s top goal-scorer with four netted goals. He also set another record last April by becoming the youngest ever to grace the field for Barcelona’s main team, at a mere 15 years, nine months, and 16 days old. So far in the current La Liga season, he’s played in all of Barcelona’s matches, even starting in two of them. He also snagged the “Man of the Match” award in a nail-biting 4-3 victory over Villarreal.
Although his Moroccan heritage offered him the choice to represent Morocco’s Atlas Lions, De la Fuente is confident that Yamal will become an integral part of Spain’s national team, La Roja, in the coming years.
“We’ve seen him up close in Barcelona. He’s something special,” explained the national coach. “We’re more interested in his capabilities than his age. The lad is equipped to compete at the highest levels. He’s an invaluable asset for our future ambitions.”
De la Fuente, who is 62 years old, stepped into the managerial role in December last year, following the departure of Luis Enrique after Spain’s disappointing elimination in the round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA World Cup.
Recently, De la Fuente found himself in hot water and later issued an apology for applauding a controversial speech by Luis Rubiales, the president of Spain’s football federation, who said he would not resign after kissing player Jenni Hermoso. The coach acknowledged it as an “unforgivable lapse in judgement” but asserted that he had no plans to resign.
If Yamal hits the pitch in either of Spain’s upcoming matches against Georgia or Cyprus, he’ll snatch yet another record, becoming the youngest player ever to represent Spain. This particular milestone is currently held by his Barcelona teammate Gavi, who made his national team debut at 17 years and 62 days old during Spain’s UEFA Nations League semi-final win against Italy.
As of now, Spain sits at fourth place in their Euro 2024 qualifying group, following a 3-0 triumph over Norway and a 2-0 setback against Scotland.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lamine Yamal
Who is Lamine Yamal?
Lamine Yamal is a 16-year-old footballer who currently plays for FC Barcelona. He’s versatile on the field, capable of playing as a central striker, attacking midfielder, or right winger.
What record did Lamine Yamal recently break?
Lamine Yamal has become the youngest player ever to be selected for Spain’s senior national team. He has been included in the squad for the Euro 2024 qualifying matches against Georgia and Cyprus.
Who is Spain’s current national team coach?
Luis de la Fuente is the current coach for Spain’s national team. He took over the reins in December of the previous year, succeeding Luis Enrique.
What other milestones has Lamine Yamal achieved?
Besides his latest record with the Spain national team, Yamal was also the youngest player ever to appear for Barcelona’s senior squad. He made his debut at 15 years, nine months, and 16 days old. In the 2023 Under-17 Euros, he was the tournament’s joint top scorer with four goals.
Could Lamine Yamal have played for another national team?
Yes, due to his Moroccan heritage from his father’s side, Yamal had the option to play for Morocco’s Atlas Lions. However, he has opted to play for Spain’s La Roja, and Coach Luis de la Fuente believes Yamal will be an integral part of the team in the future.
What was the recent controversy involving Spain’s national team coach Luis de la Fuente?
Luis de la Fuente recently faced backlash for applauding a speech by Luis Rubiales, the president of Spain’s football federation, who refused to resign after kissing player Jenni Hermoso. De la Fuente later apologized, describing it as an “unforgivable lapse in judgement.”
What will happen if Lamine Yamal plays in the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers?
If Lamine Yamal takes to the field in Spain’s upcoming matches against Georgia or Cyprus, he will break yet another record, becoming the youngest player ever to represent Spain in a senior match.
How is Spain currently performing in their Euro 2024 qualifiers?
As of the latest update, Spain is in fourth place in their Euro 2024 qualifying group. They recently had a 3-0 win against Norway but suffered a 2-0 loss against Scotland.
More about Lamine Yamal
- Lamine Yamal’s Profile on FC Barcelona Official Site
- Spain National Team’s Euro 2024 Qualifiers Schedule
- Luis de la Fuente’s Career and Controversies
- UEFA Under-17 European Championships 2023 Highlights
- Barcelona’s 2023/2024 La Liga Performance
- Atlas Lions: Morocco’s National Football Team
- Spain’s Euro 2024 Qualifying Group Standings
- Record-breaking Young Players in Football History
- Luis Rubiales Controversy Explained
- Gavi’s Profile and Records
10 comments
Seriously, when i was 16 I could barely figure out what I wanted for breakfast lol. This guy’s out here making history.
Luis de la Fuente know what he’s doing. That speech controversy tho, man’s gotta be more careful.
Whoa, this kid’s the real deal huh? Just 16 and already on the big stage. Go Yamal!
Cool, but the pressure’s on. Hope the kid’s mental game is as strong as his footwork.
My son’s 15 and he’s just excited to make the school team. The bar’s been set high, real high.
Didn’t know bout this kid before, but now im hyped. Let’s see if he lives up to it.
A Moroccan dad and now playing for Spain? The blend of cultures must’ve done wonders for his gameplay.
16 and in the senior squad. Man, I feel old. Also, he must have some crazy stamina and skill to keep up.
I mean, can he sing tho? lol jk, kid’s got mad skills on the pitch. excited to see him in the Euro 2024!
4 goals in the U-17 Euros? And youngest ever for Barca?? Someone’s been grinding XP in real life, not just FIFA.