Valdano backs Lamine Yamal after interview: ‘Telling the truth is not a sin’

Jorge Valdano says there is “no reason to worry” about Lamine Yamal’s future after interviewing the Barcelona winger, insisting the teenager’s honesty should not be treated as a fault.

The former Real Madrid player and manager spoke at length with the Spain international for Spanish television channel Movistar. He later reflected on the conversation in an article published by El Pais.

Valdano said he was struck by Yamal’s intelligence, spontaneity and ability to remain grounded despite the intense attention that has surrounded him in recent years.

“After interviews, certain impressions always remain,” Valdano wrote, as reported by Marca. “My impression is that we are dealing with an intelligent young man, and there is no reason to worry about his future.”

Yamal has faced extraordinary scrutiny both on and off the pitch. His performances, comments and behaviour are regularly analysed, prompting repeated debate about his character and the way he deals with fame away from football.

Valdano, however, believes the public discussion surrounding the Barcelona player should not obscure his understanding of where he comes from or the long journey he has made to reach the top of the game.

“At 19 years old, the real miracle is going a long way without forgetting who you are,” said the former Real Madrid star.

The 70-year-old also defended Yamal’s willingness to speak openly, amid criticism of some of the winger’s comments. Valdano argued that being honest should not itself become grounds for condemnation.

“He told the truth, and what is astonishing is that we considered telling the truth a sin,” Valdano concluded.

The former Argentina international’s comments reflect his belief that Yamal has retained his personality and connection to his roots, despite the fame and enormous pressure surrounding him.

Their Movistar interview covered several subjects involving Yamal’s career and views. During the conversation, the Barcelona player discussed the racist abuse he experienced at the Santiago Bernabeu, saying: “I really am black,” in reference to the night in question.

Yamal also challenged Real Madrid ahead of a potential Champions League meeting and acknowledged that he struggles against Bayern Munich and Paris. In addition, he criticised the criteria used to decide the Ballon d’Or, referring to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo during his argument.

The forward further claimed he had beaten Kylian Mbappe in every aspect and said his own level of performance had surpassed that of Messi and Ronaldo. Valdano’s assessment, nevertheless, was focused on the player’s character, with the former Real Madrid figure presenting Yamal’s openness as evidence of a young footballer who remains comfortable expressing his views.