Atletico Madrid trio heap praise on Barcelona teenage prodigy – ‘One of the best in the world’ | OneFootball

As Barcelona and Atletico Madrid get set to square off in a crucial La Liga encounter on Sunday, Los Rojiblancos’ trio Julian Alvarez, Robin Le Normand and Conor Gallagher have pointed out Lamine Yamal as a danger, hailing him as one of the best in the world.

Just 17 years old, Lamine has become the poster boy for Barcelona and has been brilliant this season under Hansi Flick, acting as one of the driving forces behind their treble ambitions.

Alvarez speaks highly of Lamine

Naturally, Atletico Madrid will be wary of him when they host the Blaugrana tomorrow at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, with Alvarez stating that it is a privilege to watch players like the La Masia gem.

“He is very young, but as of today, he is one of the best players in the world. The things he does and the quality he possesses at such a young age are admirable,” Alvarez told EFE (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

“It is always great to play against the best, and for spectators, it is a privilege to have players like him,” he added.

Regarding how his team will approach tomorrow’s clash against Barcelona, Atletico Madrid’s leading goalscorer this season noted:

“They will approach the game as they always do, trying to control possession and using their strengths, with players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, who are in great form,” said the World Cup winner with Argentina.

“They have high-quality players, but we are also preparing well to execute our game plan, play to our strengths, and with hard work and humility, we will come out on top,” he added.

Attracting praise from all quarters. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Praise from Le Normand and Gallagher

Robin Le Normand, Atletico’s central defender and Yamal’s teammate in Spain’s Euro 2024-winning squad, also praised the young Barcelona star.

“He is a player with a very special talent,” Le Normand said.

“At his age, it is incredible to see the quality he has and the composure he shows in such crucial matches,” he added.

However, Le Normand emphasised the importance of teamwork in stopping Yamal, saying:

“We must minimise his individual talent with our collective effort and defensive discipline. That is the key – to stay consistent and maintain our defensive solidity, which has been excellent.”

Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher also acknowledged Yamal’s exceptional ability, as he said:

“Lamine is a great player. He has already proven himself and continues to do so, especially given his age. He is a very special talent, a top player. He has demonstrated his quality and class. He is very difficult to stop,” said Gallagher.