By R. Alexander Núñez
The international recognition he received Lamine Yamal in Madrid marked a significant moment in his short career. The forward of the FC Barcelona was distinguished with the Laureus award for the best young athlete of the year, an award that, as he explained, makes him proud because it is a category awarded for the first time.
During the event, the Spanish attacker also addressed the impact of his growth as a public figure. At 18 years old, he recognized that visibility implies additional responsibility off the field. “At first it’s hard for you to realize that you have a responsibility and that you can’t make a mistake because you are the example of many children. I take it as a good thing, I always try to say something with meaning and sometimes I will make a mistake but I am 18 years old and that’s how it is,” he said.
The player took advantage of the occasion to refer to one of his main influences in football. In his words, Lionel Messi occupies a special place not only because of his sporting career, but also for its impact beyond the playing field.
“When you realize that an athlete is not only a legend in his sport but in all the others, it is because he is the best. Messi is an example. He is the best footballer in history and also the best athlete. For me he is not just another idol. “Everyone respects him for everything he has done, for the example of everything he has done and I hope to continue his path,” he expressed.
A clear objective with the Spanish team
Beyond the individual recognitions, Yamal also focused on what lies ahead with the Spanish team. The young attacker assured that one of his main objectives is to compete in the next World Cup to be held in Canada, United States and Mexico.
The forward described that tournament as a goal that has accompanied him since he was a child. “I am very excited. I have been dreaming of playing in a World Cup since I was little and I want to see my mother in the stands. There are two months left, which will be short, and hopefully we can emerge as champions,” he said.
The connection with Messi is also sustained by a similar journey within Barcelona, a club where both were trained before reaching the first team. Yamal highlighted this link as a reference to follow in his professional development.
The recognition received and his statements reflect a moment of consolidation for the young footballer, who combines the present in the elite with clear aspirations at the international level.
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