Julián Álvarez Praises Lamine Yamal: "He Is One of the Best in the World"
The Argentine striker believes the Spanish winger is "one of the best players in the world today," highlighting his "admirable quality" and stating that "it’s a luxury for the fans" to watch him play.
Clash of Stars at the Metropolitano
Argentine forward Julián Álvarez, the top scorer of the season for Atlético de Madrid, praised young Barcelona talent Lamine Yamal, whom he will face this Sunday at the Metropolitano.
Both players arrive as key figures for their teams in a direct showdown in LaLiga, recalling the thrilling 4-4 draw on February 25 in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals. In that match, Álvarez scored a goal and assisted Antoine Griezmann, while Yamal constantly troubled the Atlético de Madrid defense and contributed to two of Barcelona's goals.
The Weight of the Stars
The numbers reflect their impact this season: Álvarez has 22 goals and 5 assists, having won both the World Cup and Copa América with Argentina. Meanwhile, the 17-year-old Yamal has netted 12 goals and provided 16 assists, in addition to being LaLiga's top dribbler with 140 successful take-ons.
"He is very young, but today, he is one of the best players in the world. The things he does and the quality he has at such a young age are admirable. It’s always nice to play against the best, and for the fans, it’s a luxury to have players like him," Álvarez told EFE.
The Atlético de Madrid striker also analyzed his opponent’s style: "They will play the game as they always do, trying to leverage their strength, which is ball movement, and having players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, who are in great form. They have high-caliber players, but we are also working hard to arrive in good shape, execute our game plan, and with effort and humility, we will get the job done."
Praise From the Rojiblancos Locker Room
Within Atlético de Madrid, other players have also recognized the talent of the Barcelona winger. Robin Le Normand, Yamal's teammate in the Spanish national team and a Euro 2024 champion, said: "He is a player with very special talent. At his age, it’s incredible the quality and composure he shows in such important matches."
The Atlético de Madrid center-back emphasized the importance of collective play to stop the Barcelona star: "We need to minimize his individual talent with teamwork and unity. It’s all about sticking to our defensive approach, which we’ve been executing brilliantly."
Midfielder Conor Gallagher, who already faced Yamal in the Copa del Rey, was also clear: "Lamine Yamal is a great player. He has already proven it and keeps proving it. At his age, he is a top footballer. He is very difficult to stop."
The showdown between Atlético de Madrid and Barcelona promises to be thrilling, with two standout players at their best and the expectation of another exciting chapter in this rivalry.
