 |
| Lamine Yamal |
Barcelona and Spain winger Lamine Yamal has emphasised that pure enjoyment remains his main reason for playing football, rather than money or personal statistics such as goals and assists.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, the 19-year-old explained that he finds the greatest satisfaction in expressing himself on the pitch, creating chances, and helping teammates succeed.
He warned that becoming obsessed with individual numbers can take the joy out of the game.
“I don’t play football for money, I play because I like it,” Yamal said. “Players who are obsessed with goals or assists do not enjoy. I play for fun, to dribble, to play one touch, two, to make a teammate who has not scored, score, for happiness.”
LINKS 🔗
▶︎ 2026 Ballon d’Or: Karim Adeyemi Names Lamine Yamal as Clear Favourite
▶︎ 2026 Ballon d’Or: Dembele Jokes About Sharing Award with Kvaratskhelia as Yamal Gets Xavi Backing
These comments arrive at a significant moment in his young career. After starring for Barcelona and helping Spain to major international success, Yamal is frequently discussed among the leading candidates for individual awards. His philosophy offers a contrast to the intense focus on metrics and commercial aspects that often surrounds elite football.
Yamal also reflected on a personal encounter with Lionel Messi. After facing the Argentine legend, he approached him simply to express gratitude for everything Messi has contributed to the sport.
“I went to Leo Messi and said: thank you,” Yamal recalled. “I just thanked him a lot for everything he has done and how he’s the best. I’ve always believed he is the best.”
He stressed that the gesture was spontaneous and not staged for attention or publicity. “I always try to distance myself a little from things that seem beautiful for show. The moment came from within. I saw him there, so I went to thank him for what he did for football, it came spontaneously.”
Yamal’s remarks underline a consistent theme in how he talks about the game: creativity, team contribution, and the pure pleasure of playing. For a player already performing at the highest level while still a teenager, prioritising fun over statistics may help him sustain longevity and enjoyment amid growing expectations and scrutiny.
Whether this approach continues to define his career remains to be seen, but for now it provides a clear insight into the mindset of one of football’s brightest young talents.
Samuel O. Sulaimon is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Naijapiz. He covers news, politics, current affairs, education, and technology.
Post a Comment