Robert Lewandowski, at 36 years of age, and Lamine Yamal, simply 17, may need a hanging age distinction of almost twenty years, nevertheless it has no bearing on their synergy on the pitch.
The Polish striker and the younger Spanish prodigy have been forging an distinctive connection this season, forming a dynamic attacking trio with Raphinha. Many consider this partnership is shaping as much as be one of the vital deadly in European soccer.
Lewandowski has been vocal about his admiration for Lamine Yamal’s expertise. The skilled ahead has had the privilege of enjoying alongside a number of the finest on the planet, however the teenager’s skills have left an enduring impression.
In awe of Yamal
When Lewandowski first noticed Lamine prepare with Barcelona’s first workforce on the tender age of 15, he was shocked by the teen’s extraordinary ability and intelligence on the ball.
It’s uncommon for somebody so younger to show such maturity in decision-making and technical potential, making him stand out even amongst different proficient prospects.
Lewandowski has by no means seen a expertise like Yamal. (Photograph by MANU QUINTERO/AFP by way of Getty Photos)
“The primary time I noticed him in a primary workforce coaching session, he was 15 years outdated. It was the primary time I noticed somebody like that in my life as a result of I’ve seen many proficient younger gamers, however for the primary time I stated ‘WOW’.
“Who is that this child? It’s unimaginable to be so good and so clever at this age,” he instructed Rio Ferdinand on his podcast.
Challenges for Yamal
Nevertheless, Lewandowski recognises the challenges forward for Lamine. He emphasises that sustaining such a excessive stage of efficiency over time would be the teenager’s true take a look at.
“His problem can be to remain at this stage for the subsequent ten years,” he stated.
Whereas the preliminary breakthrough is outstanding, the true battle lies in sustaining consistency and adapting as the sport evolves. Lewandowski has taken it upon himself to mentor Lamine, providing recommendation that encourages a long-term imaginative and prescient.
“I all the time attempt to give him maybe some sort of recommendation. On the one hand it’s unimaginable what he has performed, however he additionally has to assume that quickly for him the good problem can be to remain at this excessive stage, or maybe take the subsequent step.”
Lewandowski all the time helps Yamal. (Photograph by David Ramos/Getty Photos)
He desires the younger star to assume past rapid success and plan for longevity in his profession, imagining the place he could possibly be at 26, 28, and even 30 years outdated.
“It’s not concerning the subsequent two or three years, we’re speaking concerning the subsequent ten years as a result of at that age he must be enthusiastic about what he ought to do to proceed on the prime at 26, 28 or 30 years outdated.”
When requested to match Lamine with different younger skills like Jamal Musiala, Lewandowski highlighted that Lamine operates on a distinct stage.
Whereas Musiala has his personal distinctive qualities, the Polish ahead believes Lamine’s potential to carry out at such an elite commonplace at his age is one thing actually distinctive.
“Musiala additionally had one thing, however Lamine is… How is it potential at this age that he’s already at this stage?” he concluded.