PSG defender sends subtle warning to Barcelona prodigy – ‘Will be marked by the best left-back’ | OneFootball

As Barcelona gear up for a crucial UEFA Champions League group stage clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Achraf Hakimi has tried to put the spotlight on teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Hakimi admitted that he would not be the one marking Yamal directly but pointed out that PSG left-back Nuno Mendes will be tasked with stopping him.

“Lamine is not on my side, but he will be marked by the best left-back in the world in Nuno Mendes,” Hakimi said as quoted by SPORT.

“He is capable of stopping him, as he has done already, and as he has stopped other attackers with the same style as Lamine in the past. He is well prepared.”

What was he referring to?

Hakimi brought up the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League final, when Mendes played a key role in Portugal’s win over Spain.

Mendes managed to keep Yamal quiet on that occasion while also scoring in the game. Hakimi, though, stressed that PSG’s strength comes from teamwork rather than individuals.

Lamine Yamal is fit to play against PSG. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

“But the strength of our team is the help we provide to each other,” Hakimi added.

“We will try to support Nuno so he isn’t left one-on-one, because we know what Lamine can do in those situations.”

Barcelona believe in their prodigy

While Hakimi’s words were clearly intended as a warning, they only highlight the growing fear Yamal is already causing among Europe’s elite defenders.

At just 18, he has been carrying himself with the confidence of a seasoned professional, and matches like this are where Barcelona expect him to shine.

Meanwhile, in another development, it has also been confirmed that Hakimi will wear the captain’s armband for PSG in the absence of Marquinhos.

But for Barcelona, the focus remains on their teenage prodigy, who now has the chance to turn this supposed challenge into yet another statement performance at the highest level.