Real Madrid legend explains why Barcelona forward should not be centre of national team focus | OneFootball

A respected voice from Spanish football has weighed in on one of the most talked-about debates surrounding the national team. 

Former Real Madrid forward and captain, Raul Gonzalez, has shared his perspective on the future role of Lamine Yamal within the Spanish national side.

Yamal’s rapid rise at Barcelona and his early impact with Spain have naturally sparked conversations about whether the teenager could soon become the central figure of the national team. 

However, Raul believes expectations must be managed carefully, especially given Yamal’s age and stage of development.

Addressing the subject, the former Real Madrid legend stated, 

“We all know Lamine is going to be an important player, but he is not going to be the axis [centre] of the Spanish national team.”

Asking others to step in

Expanding on his reasoning, the former striker explained the importance of surrounding the Barcelona forward with experienced figures who can share leadership on the pitch. He stressed,

Raul has nothing but praise for Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“There are more experienced players who must help Lamine so that he can be the protagonist on the pitch and relieve him of the pressure of being the one who has to save us in every match.”

In all fairness, what Raul said is pretty much justified, mostly because the national team simply cannot burden itself on the shoulders of an 18-year-old.

“There is a process of adaptation that he is going through in his own way,” he explained.

Lastly, Raul also highlighted the need to respect Yamal’s personal space and development timeline, urging patience from fans and media alike. 

Emphasising the importance of balance, he added,

“We have to give him his space. He has a lot of talent and is very young, and he has already shown that at his club and with Spain,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo