World Cup
Laurent Blanc lauds Yamal as Spain’s game‑changing force
Former Barcelona defender Laurent Blanc praised teenage winger Lamine Yamal, saying Spain become a different team with him, after the World Cup group stage where Cape Verde drew with Spain and Messi’s Argentina already netted five goals, and the tournament has already produced draws for Congo against Portugal, Qatar with Switzerland and Japan with the Netherlands.
Blanc, who played for Barcelona in the 1996/97 season and later managed the French national team, gave his comments to La dello Sport. He reflected on the tournament so far and highlighted the teams that impressed him most.
Blanc warned that no nation can afford to underestimate any opponent, stating, “It seems clear to me that there are no easy matches. Lamine Yamal has made the world talk.” He noted that Cape Verde drew with Spain, Congo held Portugal, Qatar drew 1‑1 with Switzerland, Japan drew 2‑2 with the Netherlands and Ghana stopped England.
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When asked to name the strongest sides, Blanc replied, “Germany are strong, Spain with Yamal are a different team, Messi’s Argentina are the reigning champions and must be respected, then there’s Ancelotti’s Brazil.” He added that Switzerland and Morocco were among the surprises. Blanc also admired Messi’s longevity, noting the Argentine captain, who turned 39, has already scored five goals in his opening two matches. He recalled his own career, saying, “I played until almost 38, but for a defender, it’s easier: experience and positional sense help you.” The inclusion of Yamal alongside Messi as the only players named underscores Blanc’s view of the teenager’s influence on Spain’s performances. Blanc’s remarks highlight the rising profile of the Barcelona prodigy on the world stage.