Spanish NT coach showers praise on Barcelona sensation – ‘He will be a football legend’ | OneFootball

Spain manager Luis De La Fuente spoke to the press ahead of his side’s UEFA Nations League semi-final and made it clear who he is backing for the Ballon d’Or.

Among several topics, one name stood out: Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal.

The coach did not hold back in praising the youngster, calling him a potential football legend if he stays on the right path.

De La Fuente expressed strong support for Yamal and other Spanish players like Fabian Ruiz and Pedri for the Ballon d’Or, saying, “I’m voting for Lamine, Fabian, Pedri… Any of our players. They have everything. My vote will go to the Spaniard who is nominated.”

“Lamine’s career speaks of an impressive future. It’s a responsibility to take care of every detail.

“If he continues his projection, he will be a football legend, along with those five we know. He has everything to make that happen.

Luis de la Fuente backs Lamine Yamal for Ballon d’Or. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“I value him as a great footballer when choosing: Cruyff, Maradona, Pele, Messi… That is the priority, that they are special.

“Then you have to dress it up with titles, which seems to be highly valued,” he added.

Yamal’s value and rise in world football

At just 17, the Barcelona forward has already made headlines across Europe. Recently, he became the most valuable player in world football with an estimated market value of €402.3 million.

His talent, combined with maturity beyond his age, has made him a key player for both Barcelona and Spain. De La Fuente’s words show just how highly Yamal is rated not only as a footballer but as someone who can lead a new generation.

Although Yamal is among the frontrunners for this year’s Ballon d’Or, he faces strong competition.

PSG’s Ousmane Dembele, who won a continental treble, is also in the race. Still, the belief in Yamal’s long-term greatness continues to grow, and Spain is ready to rally behind him.