Barcelona youngster earns high praise from Manchester City stalwart – ‘He has everything he needs’ | OneFootball

Ballon d’Or winner and Manchester City midfielder Rodri has recently shared his belief in the immense potential of Barcelona’s young talent, Lamine Yamal.

Rodri has expressed that he deliberately placed some pressure on the 17-year-old during the Ballon d’Or ceremony to help him unlock his true capabilities.

His comments, made during an interview with AS, were not only a praise of Yamal’s abilities but also a clear indication of his faith in the young player’s future.

Rodri has always praised Yamal

It must be noted that Rodri’s endorsement of Yamal was done right after he was crowned the prestigious honour.

This made his words about Yamal all the more significant, as they came from a player who had reached the pinnacle of success in the sport. In his remarks, Rodri confidently predicted that Yamal could one day win the Ballon d’Or himself.

Although he was careful not to overstate things, he stressed that Yamal was “special” and that he had recognised this from the very first moment he saw him.

Rodri has endorsed Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The seasoned midfielder also reminded everyone not to put too much pressure on the teenager, urging him to continue developing at his own pace.

Rodri went on to underline that Yamal’s journey in football would not be easy, and that the young Barcelona star must continue to push forward and maintain humility.

He acknowledged the importance of keeping grounded despite the praise and attention he was receiving.

Recent praise from the midfielder

Meanwhile, Rodri recently made it clear that his comments about Yamal were not merely flattery. During an interview with AS, he admitted to adding a bit of pressure on the young player, but in a way that he believes will ultimately help Yamal grow.

“Yes, I put a bit of pressure on him (laughs). For me, I think he has everything he needs to win it,” he said.

Rodri expressed confidence in the teenager’s ability to achieve greatness, knowing that the right attitude and perseverance will lead him to accomplish his dreams.

“I don’t know when he will win it, whether now or later, but I am convinced that he has the potential to win it,” he added.