Luis de la Fuente Cautions Lamine Yamal Against Rushing His Career Progression
Spain’s national team manager, Luis de la Fuente, has issued a word of caution to rising star Lamine Yamal, urging the 17-year-old not to hasten his career development following his impressive performances at Euro 2024.
Yamal, a teenage sensation from Barcelona, has been making headlines in La Liga since his debut in 2023. His standout contributions during the European Championships in Germany have catapulted him into the global spotlight. With five goals in just 11 appearances in the ongoing 2024/25 season, Yamal is poised to play a crucial role in Spain’s upcoming UEFA Nations League matches, having already featured against Serbia and Switzerland in September.
Despite Yamal’s undeniable talent, De la Fuente emphasizes the importance of patience in his development. “Lamine is a unique asset to the national team,” he stated in an interview with Mundo Deportivo. “However, we must remember that he is still a young player. At just 17 years old, he is in a critical training phase and will inevitably face challenges that may lead to scrutiny.”
De la Fuente recognizes Yamal’s exceptional abilities, describing him as “touched by the wand of God,” and acknowledges that players of his age often possess a maturity and responsibility beyond their years. However, he warns against the pitfalls of rushing into success. “I have seen many talented footballers who have faltered along the way. It’s crucial not to try to progress faster than necessary, as it can lead to setbacks. It’s important to focus on mastering the game and the many other vital aspects of being a professional athlete.”
Spain is gearing up to face Denmark in their third Nations League fixture this Saturday, just days before hosting Serbia at the Estadio Nuevo Arcangel. As Yamal continues to shine on the international stage, the emphasis on a balanced and measured approach to his career remains paramount.
