Lamine Yamal’s rise to football superstardom continues to attract admiration from some of the biggest names in the game.
The latest high-profile figure to praise the Barcelona sensation is Paul Pogba, who believes the teenager already belongs among the very best players in world football.
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It must be noted that the former France international has developed a close connection to Barcelona’s dressing room through his friendship with Ansu Fati.
That relationship has also given him a closer perspective on Yamal, one of the brightest young talents of the current generation.
While Pogba is not participating in the World Cup this summer, the Monaco midfielder has been rebuilding his career following a difficult period that included a lengthy suspension.
Now back on the pitch, the 33-year-old remains one of football’s most recognisable voices, and his comments about Yamal have quickly drawn attention.
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Pogba has nothing but praise for Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
Speaking during an interview with El Chiringuito, Pogba made it clear just how highly he rates the Barcelona winger.
While discussing Yamal’s development and current level, the French midfielder said,
“Lamine is doing very well; he’s young and calm. As he should be, he’s very young. He doesn’t want people to treat him as if he were 30.”
The former World Cup winner then highlighted what he believes should remain the youngster’s main focus as his fame continues to grow.
“I’d advise Lamine to just play football, nothing else.
Pogba places Lamine among the top three players. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
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“To surround himself with good people. His family and his manager are important. Let them worry about his image and let him focus solely on football.”
The praise becomes even more significant considering Pogba’s own experience at the highest level of the sport.
Throughout his career, the Frenchman has dealt with enormous expectations, media scrutiny and worldwide popularity.
Lastly, perhaps the most striking part of Pogba’s interview came when he was asked where Yamal ranks among the world’s best players.
The Monaco midfielder left little room for debate, stating, “If he isn’t the best, he’s among the top three. If he isn’t first, he’s second or third.”
