Former Manchester United goalkeeper Ricardo has expressed admiration for Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal, suggesting the club should attempt to bring the teenage sensation to Old Trafford.
The 17-year-old winger has been one of the standout performers for both club and country, prompting Ricardo to highlight him as the ideal signing for a rebuilding Manchester United side.
Yamal, who is of Moroccan descent through his father and Equatorial Guinean heritage from his mother, has emerged as a generational talent in La Liga.
His rapid rise through Barcelona’s ranks and stellar contributions to the Spanish national team have placed him firmly among Europe’s most coveted young players.
When asked about Manchester United’s needs ahead of their Europa League final clash with Tottenham Hotspur, Ricardo did not hesitate to name Yamal, albeit with a hint of humour.
“It’s a difficult thing, but I would sign Lamine Yamal [laughs]. Players like that,” he said.
“But of course, he’s had a significant breakthrough there at Barcelona and these are players that are hard to get, that’s clear.”
The former Red Devils shot-stopper went on to underline Yamal’s tactical intelligence and maturity well beyond his years.
“Last year, playing for the Spanish national team, look at everything he contributed, it was enough to win the European Championship.
“But not just because of the goals he scores, but because of how he manages the game, what the team needs at every moment. To do that at his age is hard to believe. You have to see it to believe it.”
While a move for Yamal appears highly unlikely due to his importance to Barcelona, Ricardo’s comments reflect the admiration many in the football world have for the emerging winger.
