Lamine Yamal: "Messi is the best in history"

Following a surprising draw against Cape Verde, the Spanish national team faces Saudi Arabia needing a victory to keep their World Cup aspirations alive. Despite the anticipation surrounding his return, Lamine Yamal has urged caution regarding his playing time, emphasizing that he is still undergoing an adaptation process after his injury.

In an interview with RTVE, the young winger admitted he isn't ready to play the full 90 minutes. "It's too early, it's unnecessary. I'm in an adaptation process, and it's not the time to play an entire game, but I can play as many minutes as the coach wants," he stated.

The Spanish international also confessed that the possibility of missing the World Cup was constantly on his mind during recovery. "All players think about the World Cup when they get injured at this stage of the season. Fortunately, the doctors told me I'd be fine, and now I'm happy to be here," he concluded.

Yamal also addressed his growing international recognition, particularly in the United States, but assured that he remains grounded.

"If people enjoy watching me play, it's because I can do things on the field that excite them," he remarked.

Often compared to some of the biggest names in world football, the player highlighted that he prioritizes collective success over individual statistics. "I want to enjoy and win; I don't want to score 16 goals and be eliminated in the semi-finals," he added.

When asked about Lionel Messi, he expressed admiration for the Argentine captain. "Messi shows in every game that he is the best in history. If anyone doubts that, they're looking for reasons to," he emphasized. Still, he made sure to mention his primary footballing idol: "My idol is Neymar, but Messi is better," he noted.

Regarding a potential encounter with Argentina in the knockout stages, Yamal showed ambition, stating that "to win the World Cup," one must "beat the best."