Vicente del Bosque, former coach of the Spanish national team, praised the Barcelona star, stating that this player has all the qualities to become exceptional in the coming years.
Del Bosque coached the Spanish national team for many years, leading La Roja to win both the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012 titles.
The Spanish national team returned to make history again after winning the Euro 2024 title, followed by securing the World Cup this year during the edition held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
In statements reported by the newspaper 'Sport', Del Bosque commended the abilities of Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, who did not deliver his best performance with Spain during the World Cup; however, the 19-year-old remains an important player for his national team.
Regarding Lamine Yamal, Del Bosque said: "He is truly an exciting player to watch and possesses all the qualities to become exceptional, and he indeed will be. I really enjoy watching him; his dribbling, his way of opening up the field, and given what is always expected from him, I anticipate even more from him."
Del Bosque also discussed the World Cup tournament, explaining that he had predicted Spain would win the title and that the results in the competition were not surprising. He added: "If I must talk about one thing in this tournament, it is Spain. In the matches I watched them play, they performed exactly as they intended, controlled the flow of the games, and demonstrated great confidence."
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Del Bosque believes that football in Spain took a different turn after the national team's Euro 2008 triumph, explaining: "Previously, we used to travel abroad to see what our competitors were doing, but now they come to watch us. Additionally, many talents have emerged, both as players and coaches."
Del Bosque also praised Rodri, captain of the Spanish national team and new arrival at Barcelona, refusing to compare the current La Roja squad with the 2010 World Cup-winning team. He further commended the work of the current national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, and his manner of dealing with players, emphasizing that self-control is essential for any technical director.
Del Bosque also acknowledged that facing Argentina in the World Cup final was not easy for Spain, while praising some standout stars of the tournament, such as the French duo Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappé.
Regarding the water-break rule implemented during the World Cup, Del Bosque concluded: "I don't know if it affects the course of the match, but it is true that the time between breaks seems long. I'm not saying matches shouldn't be stopped when the weather is extremely hot, but I don't think it should be a fixed rule; advertisements and television seem to play a role in this, in my opinion."
Del Bosque possesses extensive coaching experience, having also managed Real Madrid, leading them to win two UEFA Champions League titles and two La Liga titles before departing in 2003.
