‘Let the kid grow’… Cristiano Ronaldo speaks about Lamine Yamal ahead of UEFA Nations League final | OneFootball

FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has well and truly taken over the footballing world by storm. For both club and country, the Spaniard continues to prove himself to be a proper game-changer. Having already helped Barcelona to a domestic treble, his attention is now towards international football.

Over there, his exploits need no introduction as the world is already talking about his performance against France. With him coming up against other Ballon d’Or contenders in that encounter, it was a match that was expected to have a lot of eyes on it.

Then, with two goals and a sensational performance, Yamal led his team to victory against France with an MVP-worthy display and helped Spain reach the UEFA Nations League final. Now, the Spaniards will be looking to take on Portugal in that massive encounter.

Lamine Yamal in action against France. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Cristiano Ronaldo talks about Lamine Yamal

Ahead of the game, however, Cristiano Ronaldo was present at the pre-match press conference. As quoted by Fabrizio Romano, the Portuguese icon even spoke about Lamine Yamal and said that the youngster was doing well but that he should be given the space to grow at his own pace:

“Lamine Yamal is doing very well, taking advantage of his talent. Let the kid grow.”

He further clarified that the young 17-year-old Barcelona winger should not be given the extra pressure to deal with, and that his talent remains undeniable:

Legends continue to praise the Barcelona star

Some big words from the football legend, and they certainly hold value. Yamal is excelling at an exceptional rate, and the pressure and expectations of the footballing world are already being put on him.

While he shows no signs of stopping or letting the pressure get to him, a talent like his is generational and must be protected. After all, even legends like Zinedine Zidane cannot help but sing his praises, and that showcases just how incredible the young player is.