Cristiano Ronaldo on Lamine Yamal: ''Let the kid grow'' | OneFootball

In the lead-up to the Nations League final against Spain, Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo opened up about his drive to lift another trophy - something he hasn't managed since 2021.

The Portuguese icon spoke with optimism about the chances of the Seleção coming out on top this Sunday. He also touched on the much-talked-about generational face-off with Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

When asked about missing out on recent finals, Ronaldo said: “Not really… That’s just how football goes. Sometimes you win a lot, sometimes you don’t pick up any team trophies. You can't always win, but the last shot of the season is tomorrow. I'm confident that Portugal will come away with the trophy. It's a difficult game, but it's possible.”

Ronaldo seemed calm and collected ahead of what’s been billed as a ‘clash of generations’ between himself and 16-year-old Yamal.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also called for patience and support for the young Spanish forward: 'Lamine Yamal is doing very well, taking advantage of his talent. Let the kid grow. Don't put too much pressure on him. Let him be and grow well, take the pressure off. He has no shortage of talent.'

Ronaldo also put an end to speculation linking him with a potential move to a club competing in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, confirming that he won’t be taking part.

“It’s almost decided that I will not take part at the FIFA Club World Cup despite receiving many invitations and proposals,” he said. “There have been talks, contacts… but you have to think about short, medium and long term.”