World Cup 2026: Lamine Yamal’s explosion is still coming – Luis de la Fuente

Luis de la Fuente believes the world is yet to see the best version of Lamine Yamal at the 2026 World Cup, with the Spain coach backing the teenage sensation to produce a defining moment when they face Belgium in the quarter-finals.

Yamal has already built a reputation as one of football’s brightest talents after inspiring Spain to European Championship success two years ago, but the 18-year-old has struggled to match the attacking numbers of some of the tournament’s biggest stars.

While players such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland have dominated headlines with goals and decisive contributions, Yamal has managed just one goal and no assists so far in the United States.

However, De la Fuente insists the Barcelona winger’s influence goes beyond statistics and believes his most dangerous displays are still ahead.

“We know that the best version of him, the attacking Lamine, is something that we haven’t quite seen yet in this World Cup. Not to the level that we’re used to,” De la Fuente said.

‘He doesn’t need extra motivation’ – De la Fuente highlights Yamal’s hunger

Yamal arrived at the tournament still recovering from a late-season injury, limiting his rhythm, but he has remained a constant threat for opponents with his direct running and creativity from Spain’s right side.

His individual battle with Portugal defender Nuno Mendes in the previous round underlined his impact, with De la Fuente suggesting the intensity of the duel contributed to the full-back’s early exit.

“We were facing a powerhouse of a rival, and the defender who was marking him ultimately had to do so much that he was injured,” the Spain boss explained.

After Spain’s dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal, De la Fuente described Yamal’s performance as one of the winger’s best displays and an important step in his development.

The coach believes the teenager has gained valuable experience from facing tougher challenges on the biggest stage, particularly against defenders determined to stop him.

“He doesn’t need extra motivation. You actually sometimes have to calm his intensity. He’s very motivated — he wants to do so much,” he added.

Belgium challenge awaits as Spain look for Yamal’s breakthrough moment

Spain head into the quarter-final clash with Belgium having kept a perfect defensive record at the tournament, but they face a side full of attacking confidence after Belgium scored four goals against the United States in the previous round.

The pressure will be on Spain’s attacking players to provide the cutting edge, and Yamal could be the player to unlock Belgium’s defence.

Despite his limited goal contribution so far, De la Fuente remains convinced that the teenager’s attacking influence will arrive when Spain need it most.

“He’s going to perform on the attacking front – that’s very clear,” he said.

“He’s got incredible potential. And, of course, this is yet to come in some respects.”

With Spain chasing another deep run at the World Cup, the Belgium showdown could offer Yamal the perfect stage to announce himself on football’s biggest platform.