Former Barcelona midfielder praises Lamine Yamal while offering crucial advice – ‘Only thing that needs to improve…’ | OneFootball

Former Barcelona and Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has shared his views on the rapid rise of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

The Frenchman, while full of praise for the 18-year-old, also took the opportunity to deliver some advice for the youngster as he continues to establish himself as one of Barça’s most exciting players.

Petit’s first reflection on Yamal was nothing short of a major compliment. “He reminds me of Messi on the right wing,” Petit admitted. “Every time he touches the ball, you can see that he generates danger.

“He usually attracts two or even three opponents to his zone, which opens up spaces for his teammates. That’s why Barça are so dangerous.”

The World Cup winner also highlighted the chemistry Yamal is building with his teammates. “At his age, he is a phenomenon. If he maintains this level, he will win the Ballon d’Or.

“And he knows that he has to repeat it, both at Barça and in the Spanish national team. The World Cup comes at the end of the season, another big goal for him.”

Petit’s warning to Yamal

While Petit sees enormous potential in the Barcelona prodigy, he also stressed the importance of mentality in taking the next step.

“To really consolidate, they need to win the Champions League. His qualities – technique, vision, power, intelligence in movements – are unique. The only thing that needs to improve is the mentality.”

Petit has shared his advice with Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Petit reminded that everything is currently going Yamal’s way, but warned that tough times will eventually come.

“There will be many waiting to bring him down, and it will be then when we will see how he reacts.”

Drawing a comparison with Kylian Mbappe, Petit added, “For years everything was green lights, and suddenly everything fell apart and he was not the same on the pitch.”

He also cautioned Yamal about off-the-field matters. “Yamal must be careful with his communication and with the management of his social networks. Sometimes you perceive a touch of arrogance.”

Petit concluded by recalling how great footballers of the past carried themselves. “Some were arrogant, yes, but they backed it up with their game. The problem arises when the results do not accompany.

“In Lamine’s case, he’s still very young and his brilliance is partly due to pure talent; maturity will come. The player who is on the pitch should help him grow off it as well.”

With praise, comparisons to Messi, and warnings about challenges ahead, Petit’s words underline just how much is expected from Barcelona’s teenage star.

Source: SPORT