Manuel Pellegrini names Barcelona’s ‘difference-maker’ ahead of La Liga clash | OneFootball

Real Betis head coach Manuel Pellegrini has on Friday opened up on his admiration for a leading member of the attacking ranks at Barcelona.

The player in question? Lamine Yamal.

Wide-man Lamine is for his part of course in the midst of nothing short of a spectacular season to date.

Despite his tender years, the 17-year-old has continued to force his name into the conversation surrounding world football’s very best wingers, by way of a remarkable blend of touch, dribbling ability, vision, and finished product.

All told, in 41 appearances across all competitions, Lamine has racked up 13 goals, and a remarkable 19 assists.

And one individual under no illusions when it comes to the challenge awaiting his side in keeping the Spanish international quiet this weekend is the aforementioned Manuel Pellegrini.

Real Betis are set to make the trip to Catalunya’s capital on Saturday evening, to lock horns with La Liga table-toppers Barcelona.

And, drawn on the lofty task awaiting his side at Montjuïc, boss Pellegrini was quick to highlight Lamine as Barca’s leading danger man:

“Lamine Yamal is the difference-maker, young and very mature. We always have to try to limit his influence. He’s going through a great period, and we’ll try to be the same Real Betis we have been, taking into account players like him.”

Conor Laird – GSFN