Intro: At 16, Yamal has broken several records for Barcelona. In La Liga, he became the youngest starter for Barcelona, the youngest player to record an assist, the youngest to score for Barcelona, the youngest to feature for Barcelona in EL Clasico, the youngest to score a brace, and the first player ever to achieve this record under the age of 17
By Kamran Khan
In the ever-evolving landscape of international football, new talent emerges from unexpected corners of the globe, captivating audiences with their skill, dexterity and determination. One such rising star is Lamine Yamal — a name steadily gaining recognition in football circles for his exceptional abilities and promising potential.
Lamine Yamal Nasraoui Ebana (born July 13, 2007) is a Spanish footballer who plays as a right-winger for the La Liga Club of Barcelona and the national team of Spain. These days, he is being regarded as one of the best in the game.
At 16, Yamal has broken several records for Barcelona during the season, making 50 appearances in various competitions. In La Liga, he became the youngest starter for Barcelona, the youngest player to record an assist, the youngest to score for Barcelona, the youngest to feature for Barcelona in EL Clasico, the youngest to score a brace, and the first player ever to achieve this record under the age of 17.
He also became the youngest player to register more than 10 goal contributions in La Liga and in 213 days. In the Champions League, he became the second youngest player to feature in the cup, named in a starting line-up, playing in the knock-out phase.
At the age of 16 years and 50 days, Yamal received his first senior international call-up on September 1, 2023, by coach Luis de la Fuente, for the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers against Georgia and Cyprus. He made his senior debut on September 8, 2023, scoring in the 74th minute, in a 7-1 victory.
At 16 years and 57 days, he became the youngest player and goal-scorer for Spain, breaking records held by Gavi, who debuted at 17 years, 62 days, and scored at 17 years, 304 days. Apart from this, Yamal became the youngest goal-scorer in a Euro qualifying match, overtaking Welsh footballer Gareth Bale, who scored at the age of 17 years, 83 days old.
Yamal was recalled to the Spanish squad in October, 2023, for the remaining Euro qualifying matches against Scotland and Norway. Spain won both the matches to qualify for Euro 2024.
On June 7, 2024, he was selected in the 26-man squad for the tournament. On June 15, he made his debut in the European Championship against Croatia, becoming the youngest player to feature in the tournament, at 16 years and 338 days, breaking the previous record of Poland’s Kacper Kozłowski.
During the match against Croatia, he also became the youngest player to provide an assist, setting up Dani Carvajal’s goal in a 3-0 victory. In the round of 16 match against Georgia, he became the youngest to feature in the knock-out phase, breaking Jude Bellingham’s record, in addition to providing another assist in a 4-1 victory.
He again provided a vital assist against Germany in a 2-1 quarter final win, and tied a Spanish record for having three assists in the same edition of the European Championship (after Cesc Fàbregas in 2008, David Silva in 2012 and Dani Olmo in 2020). He scored Spain’s first goal in the 2-1 semi-final victory against France on July 9, with a curling strike from outside the penalty area.
Thereby, he became the youngest goal-scorer in the history of the Euros. This was four days before his 17th birthday, more than a year younger than the previous record-holder, Johan Vonlanthen.
At the end of UEFA Euro 2024, Yamal was named UEFA EURO 2024 Young Player of the Tournament. Spain’s 2-1 victory against England in the Euro 2024 final made him the youngest player to win the Euros. He assisted fellow-winger, Nico Williams, for Spain’s first goal in the final, subsequently becoming the youngest player to register a goal-involvement in a major tournament final.
Yamal hails from the vibrant city of Nouakchott, Mauritania, in West Africa, where football serves as not just a sport, but a cultural cornerstone. Born into a family with a deep passion for the game, his journey into football began at an early age. His natural talent and dedication quickly set him apart, catching the attention of local coaches and scouts who recognized his potential.
Yamal’s path to professional football was not without challenges. Like many aspiring athletes from developing regions, he faced obstacles, ranging from limited resources, to the need for extensive training opportunities. However, his stoic determination and unwavering focus on honing his skills, saw him through these hurdles.
At a pivotal moment in his career, he caught the eye of scouts from European clubs during an international youth tournament. His stand-out performances showcased not only his technical prowess on the field, but, also, his ability to thrive under pressure. This led to his signing with a reputed European club, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Yamal is known for his versatility and agility on the field. Primarily a mid-fielder, he possesses remarkable ball- control and vision, often orchestrating moves with precision-passes and strategic positioning. His ability to read the game and adapt to varying tactical demands has made him a valuable asset to his team.
Beyond technical proficiency, the footballer brings in an infectious energy to every match. His work-ethic and commitment resonate on and off the field, earning him respect from his teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
As he continues to evolve as a player, his impact on Mauritanian and African football cannot be overstated. His success serves as an inspiration for aspiring young athletes across the continent, illustrating that talent, perseverance and opportunity can converge to create remarkable and real stories of great achievements.
Looking ahead, Yamal’s journey promises the unfolding of many rainbows. Whether he continues to shine in the European leagues, or represents his national team in the international stage, his contribution to the sport is poised to leave a lasting legacy.
His ascent in football exemplifies the power of passion and dedication in realizing impossible dreams. From humble beginnings in Nouakchott, to becoming a top talent in global football, his journey embodies the spirit of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. As fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter of his football life, one thing remains certain — Lamine Yamal will be a name to remember in the history of world football.