Yamal Responds to Comparisons with Mbappé and Haaland: ‘They Are 10 Years Older Than Me’

Summary of the News
Spain’s 18-year-old player Lamine Yamal’s World Cup debut ended in a draw against Cape Verde. Recently recovering from a muscle injury, Yamal entered the match in the 61st minute but was unable to deliver the expected performance. Regarding comparisons with Mbappé and Haaland, Yamal said, “I don’t care about that,” emphasizing that he does not seek to imitate others. June 20, Kathmandu.

Lamine Yamal’s World Cup debut for Spain did not go as smoothly as anticipated. The 18-year-old star, who had already impressed before the tournament, made his first national team appearance in the match against Cape Verde. However, the debut proved less than inspiring for him. Spain, a title contender, was held to a draw by Cape Verde, who were participating in the World Cup for the first time. Yamal came on in the 61st minute but was not able to perform at the expected level, largely due to fitness challenges following a recent muscle injury.

Yamal began the match on the bench, but due to Spain’s inability to score, he was brought on as a tactical necessity. Meanwhile, in the tournament’s opening matches, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland each scored two goals for France and Norway respectively. Comparisons between Yamal and these two players have been common in global football circles, but Yamal expressed indifference to such parallels. “I don’t try to copy Mbappé. Even if Messi scored a goal, I wouldn’t want to score the same way,” he said. “I don’t care about that.”

He added, “They are 10 years older than me, and my playing style is completely different. I’m willing to listen. I could score 16 goals and then fail in the semifinals. That’s not what I’m aiming for.” At 18, Yamal is recognized as one of the best young talents in world football. He remains a key player for both his club and national team. In 2024, Yamal played a significant role in helping Spain secure the UEFA European Championship title.