Despite his rise at Barcelona, Spain’s Lamine Yamal has plenty to prove at the international level.
Legendary Argentine footballer Mario Kempes has challenged Yamal to replicate his club performances in the ongoing global showpiece if he wants to establish himself as one of football’s superstars.
“He needs to prove that [he is a superstar]. In Barcelona, we’ve all seen it already, but let’s see it in the World Cup. That’s where the value of the big players shows,” he told the media.
The former footballer also feels that the pressure during the knockout stages in international tournaments separates the good players from the greats of the game. He argued that the familiarity and structure of club football can often conceal a player’s shortcomings, whereas the unique pressures and demands of a month-long tournament like the FIFA World Cup quickly expose any weaknesses.
“The World Cup isn’t like playing with the team, as many who played in Barcelona did. We know Barcelona players on the international level through the Champions League, but this is the World Cup. Despite these challenges, Austria boss Ralf Rangnick recently claimed the winger could reach a level similar to that of Messi if he manages to stay fit and grounded,” said Kempes.
Spain will now lock horns with Austria in the round of 32. The clash is scheduled to be played on July 3 at the Los Angeles Stadium in California.
If Spain manage to secure a win against Austria, the Spanishmen could face Portugal in the round of 16, if the Cristiano Ronaldo-led team defeat Croatia in the round of 32.
The final of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be played on July 20 at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford.
FIFA World Cup 2026, Spain: Full squad
Goalkeepers: David Raya, Joan Garcia, Unai Simon.
Defenders: Marc Pubil, Alejandro Grimaldo, Eric García, Marcos Llorente, Pedro Porro, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Cucurella.
Midfielders: Mikel Merino, Fabian Ruiz, Gavi, Alex Baena, Rodri, Martin Zubimendi, Pedri.
Forwards: Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, Yeremy Pino, Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Victor Munoz, Borja Iglesias.
(With ANI Inputs)
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