Former Real Madrid forward offers key advice to Barcelona superstar: ‘Surrounding yourself with the right people’ | OneFootball

At just 18, Lamine Yamal is already carrying expectations that most players do not face until much later in their careers. 

The Barcelona prodigy has become one of the most exciting young talents in European football, combining flair, composure, and maturity beyond his years.

But as history has shown, early success often comes with hidden dangers.

Few understand that reality better than Michael Owen. The former England and Real Madrid forward burst onto the scene as a teenager, becoming one of the most feared forwards in the game. 

His rapid rise eventually led to him winning the Ballon d’Or at a remarkably young age, placing him among football’s elite before many of his peers had even fully established themselves.

Advice for Lamine Yamal

Drawing from that personal experience, Owen has now shared important advice for Yamal.

Reflecting on what truly defines a young player’s career, Owen pointed to the mental and environmental challenges that come with fame. 

He explained that dealing with external pressure is often harder than anything that happens on the pitch.

Owen has shared crucial advice with Yamal. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)

“If you ask me what’s the hardest thing to manage, I’d say it’s blocking out the noise, surrounding yourself with the right people, and performing on the field,” says Owen.

Encouragingly for Barcelona, Yamal appears to be handling that pressure with remarkable calm. 

Owen himself acknowledged the youngster’s current mindset, suggesting that he is not being overwhelmed by expectations at this stage.

“You look at Lamine Yamal and he’s having a great time, not letting all the outside noise affect him, so he doesn’t seem to feel any pressure,” he added.

Looking ahead, the question many are asking is whether Yamal has the potential to define an era at Barcelona and beyond. 

Owen, however, remains cautious in his assessment. While clearly impressed, he believes it is still too early to make definitive claims about the youngster’s long-term legacy.

“It’s too early to say. But if you asked me to name three forwards I’m looking forward to seeing at the World Cup, Yamal would be one of them, without a doubt.

“Being at Barcelona helps mark an era in European football, but it’s still too early to say for sure,” he concluded.

Source: SPORT