At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal continues to capture the footballing world’s attention with his remarkable talent and maturity beyond his years.
The FC Barcelona prodigy has already made history as one of the brightest young stars in European football, and his recent comments about a rival player have sparked widespread discussion.
Yamal, who has become a key figure for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team, was asked to name the best dribbler in the UEFA Champions League. His response was unexpected: “Mbappé.”
A surprising choice amidst rivalry
Yamal’s selection of Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappé over other notable dribblers, such as Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior, raised eyebrows—particularly among Barcelona fans.
Given the intense rivalry between Barça and Real Madrid, many expected him to name a player from his own club or at least avoid praising a potential future Madrid star.
While Vinícius is widely regarded as one of the most explosive dribblers in world football, Yamal’s admiration for Mbappé suggests he sees the French forward as an all-around attacking force, capable of influencing the game in multiple ways.
Respect beyond club allegiances
Yamal’s acknowledgment of Mbappé is not entirely surprising.
The 2018 World Cup winner has been at the top of world football for several years, combining blistering pace, technical ability, and a clinical eye for goal.
His recent hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League only solidified his reputation as one of the most dangerous forwards in the game—something Yamal, as a young player studying the sport’s best, would naturally take note of.
This is not the first time the Barcelona winger has spoken highly of Mbappé. His admiration for the French forward highlights the mutual respect that transcends club rivalries, especially among the new generation of players who have grown up watching today’s biggest stars.
A future star in the making
Despite his youth, Yamal has already achieved impressive milestones, including playing a key role in Spain’s European Championship triumph and finishing eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
As a product of La Masia, he embodies the technical brilliance and attacking flair that have defined Barcelona’s greatest players.
His ability to eliminate defenders with ease and his composure on the ball have drawn comparisons to some of the club’s past legends.
But while Yamal is quickly becoming a household name, his praise for Mbappé serves as a reminder that even the brightest young talents look up to those who have already established themselves at the pinnacle of the sport.
As the La Liga title race heats up between Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid, Yamal’s admiration for Mbappé may not sit well with all Blaugrana supporters.
However, his honesty reflects a new generation of players who, regardless of club allegiances, appreciate pure footballing excellence.
lamine yamal picking kylian mbappé as the best dribbler. crazy for a player who people say isn’t a proper dribbler!! 😂🤍
— 𝓛 (@kyliancore) February 27, 2025
