Lamine Yamal “has to win the Ballon d'Or” after his “explanation” protection against France in the semi -final of the Nations League, according to the Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente.
The 17-year-old played a leading role when La Roja booked their place in Sunday's final against Portugal and scored twice in an exciting 5-4 victory over Les Bleus in Stuttgart.
Yamal wants to add more silverware to his collection, after he helped Barcelona to the LaLiga title last month, while he scored 18 goals and offer 21 assists (including a League-High 13 in LaLiga) in all matches in 2024-25.
The winger is also strongly tipped for important individual awards, including this year's balloon d'Or, and De La Fuente believes that he did not affect any damage on Thursday.
“Lamine has made a statement and has to win the balloon d'Or,” the Spain coach told RTVE.
“On the field there were two of the best teams in the world. The game went to our advantage.
“It is not easy to score five goals against an opponent. We have taken our chances very well. It shows the high level of the players.”
Nico Williams urged Yamal to “continue to work with humility”, while he also tipped his colleague wing player for the balloon d'Or.
However, the teenager is only aimed at constantly producing the goods on the field, instead of winning prizes.
“I always say to my mother, it is best to talk on the field,” he said.
“France is a great team that makes you suffer, which is normal. But we are very happy with the victory.”
Spain had led 5-1, but by the end held after France had reduced their deficiency to a single goal.
Nevertheless, the ruling Nations League champions will fight with winners of 2019 Portugal for the right to become the first several victors of the tournament.
“We didn't expect that [finish] When we were 5-1 higher, “Mikel Merino, who scored Spain's second goal, added.
“But in the elite you can't take it for a matter of course. We are proud of this group. It is another final and we are fighting for another title.”