Jorge Mendes has just lately highlighted that Barcelona’s rising star, Lamine Yamal, ought to look to Cristiano Ronaldo as a job mannequin whereas additionally emphasizing the necessity for Italian soccer to present extra alternatives to younger skills.
Mendes, who has been acknowledged because the Finest European agent by Tuttosport, represents Yamal, who has been named the 2024 Golden Boy. The celebrated award ceremony is ready to happen in Turin on Monday, December 16.
Throughout an interview, Tuttosport requested Mendes if Yamal ought to observe the instance of Cristiano Ronaldo to attain related success in his profession, significantly when it comes to accomplishments and longevity.
What did Mendes say?
Whereas Mendes is cautious about making direct comparisons, he made it clear that Ronaldo’s profession serves as an exemplary mannequin for younger gamers, together with Yamal.
“I don’t prefer to make comparisons, however no doubt, Cristiano is an efficient instance to observe, not just for Lamine however for all younger folks,” he started saying.
Based on Mendes, if Yamal adopts the identical mindset each on and off the sphere as Ronaldo, there’s little doubt that he’ll rise to the highest of world soccer within the years to return.
Jorge Mendes has requested Lamine Yamal to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo. (Photograph by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Photos)
“If he follows his instance on and off the pitch, he will certainly be on the high of world soccer within the subsequent 20 years.”
Mendes went on to reward Yamal’s distinctive expertise, emphasizing that the 17-year-old has already surpassed a lot of his friends.
He expressed confidence that if Yamal stays centered and avoids distractions, he might probably win the Ballon d’Or a number of occasions.
“Lamine is no doubt a participant with phenomenal expertise, who beats all of the others, and he’s solely 17 years previous.
“If he doesn’t get distracted and if he all the time stays centered, I’ve little question that Lamine will win the Ballon d’Or, not as soon as however a number of occasions,” he added.
Yamal, who’s a product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, has typically been in comparison with Lionel Messi, owing to his enjoying model and potential.
Nevertheless, Mendes’ suggestion to make use of Ronaldo as a job mannequin provides a distinct angle to the dialog.
Whereas there isn’t a denying Ronaldo’s greatness, some might discover it uncommon to counsel {that a} younger participant from La Masia ought to look as much as a participant with such a distinct model of play.