Lamine Yamal has categorically rejected any possibility of ever playing for "Real Madrid" in a revealing interview with El Partidazo de COPE. The 17-year-old Barcelona attacking midfielder didn't mince words when asked about potentially joining Barcelona's arch-rivals.
"Would I play for Real Madrid? No. Impossible," – stated the Spanish wonderkid with absolute conviction.
Despite his young age, Yamal shows remarkable maturity when discussing individual accolades. The teenager emphasized that personal enjoyment takes precedence over hunting prestigious awards.
"I don't think about winning the Ballon d'Or. I think about enjoying football and playing well. If it comes, it will come," – Yamal explained.
Interestingly, when the interviewer suggested the upcoming Spain vs France Nations League semifinal could be decisive in the Ballon d'Or race between him and Dembele, Yamal responded with characteristic confidence and humor.
"I would vote for the best player of the year. But if you want to play for it on Thursday – let's play. Personally, I would give it to the best player of the year – and keep it for myself," – joked the Barcelona prodigy.
Yamal also offered candid insights about Barcelona's mentality issues, highlighting a concerning contrast with their rivals. "We're progressing, but we need to believe ourselves that we're the best," he noted. "When Real Madrid lost to Arsenal, everyone believed they could come back. When we drew with Inter, people had doubts. That's what needs to change."
According to Statbet analysis, Barcelona's confidence issues have been reflected in their inconsistent performances this season, particularly in crucial Champions League fixtures.
The interview concluded with Yamal sharing his personal Champions League team of the season, naming Donnarumma as best goalkeeper, Pacho as best defender, Pedri and Vitinha as best midfielders, Raphinha as best forward, and Luis Enrique as best coach.
Can Barcelona's young star maintain this level of confidence and help transform the mentality at his club? If his interview responses are any indication, Yamal certainly doesn't lack the self-belief needed to lead that change.
