Robert Lewandowski, at 36 years of age, and Lamine Yamal, simply 17, might need a putting age distinction of almost 20 years, however 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 some of the deadly in European soccer.
Lewandowski has been vocal about his admiration for Lamine Yamal’s expertise. The skilled ahead has had the privilege of taking part in alongside a number of the greatest on the earth, however the teenager’s skills have left an enduring impression.
In awe of Yamal
When Lewandowski first noticed Lamine prepare with Barcelona’s first staff on the tender age of 15, he was bowled over 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 means, making him stand out even amongst different proficient prospects.
“The primary time I noticed him in a primary staff coaching session, he was 15 years previous. 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 inconceivable to be so good and so clever at this age,” he advised Rio Ferdinand on his podcast.
Challenges for Yamal
Nonetheless, Lewandowski recognises the challenges forward for Lamine. He emphasises that sustaining such a excessive degree of efficiency over time would be the teenager’s true take a look at.
“His problem will probably be to remain at this degree for the following 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 form of recommendation. On the one hand it’s unimaginable what he has completed, however he additionally has to suppose that quickly for him the good problem will probably be to remain at this excessive degree, or maybe take the following step.”
He needs the younger star to suppose past instant success and plan for longevity in his profession, imagining the place he may very well be at 26, 28, and even 30 years previous.
“It isn’t in regards to the subsequent two or three years, we’re speaking in regards to the subsequent ten years as a result of at that age he must be excited about what he ought to do to proceed on the high at 26, 28 or 30 years previous.”
When requested to check Lamine with different younger skills like Jamal Musiala, Lewandowski highlighted that Lamine operates on a distinct degree.
Whereas Musiala has his personal distinctive qualities, the Polish ahead believes Lamine’s means to carry out at such an elite normal at his age is one thing actually distinctive.
“Musiala additionally had one thing, however Lamine is… How is it attainable at this age that he’s already at this degree?” he concluded.
