Lewandowski Raises Concerns About Yamal’s Future Motivation

Barcelona forward Robert Lewandowski has voiced his thoughts on whether his younger teammate Lamine Yamal will sustain his enthusiasm and drive as his career progresses.

Assessment of Yamal’s Talent

Lewandowski holds a strong belief in the skills and potential of the 18-year-old, yet he is uncertain if Yamal can keep up his developmental trajectory over the long haul.

Managing New Generations

In an interview with The Times, Lewandowski shared his experiences with the younger players in the Barcelona squad, saying, “Navigating the dynamics in our dressing room has proven to be quite challenging. I come from a different era, and it required me to adapt my approach to effectively support these talented individuals.”

He elaborated, “Previously, motivating players often involved raising your voice. Nowadays, a loud approach doesn’t yield the same results. Instead of proving anyone wrong, this generation prefers clear explanations. You must engage in thorough discussions, as they aren’t responsive to yelling. Emphasizing the psychological aspect of the game has become essential.”

Yamal’s Precocious Talent

Reflecting on Yamal, Lewandowski remarked, “When I first trained alongside Lamine, he was merely 15 years old. At the season’s conclusion, various players were auditioning for spots on the team. Lamine faced off against a seasoned left-back and demonstrated his remarkable skills. While many talented individuals require time to develop, that wasn’t the case with Lamine.”

He added, “I’ve rarely encountered such exceptional talent at such a young age. The real test for him will be to maintain that hunger and passion three or four years from now. It raises doubts about whether starting your career at 16 in the elite level can sustain a two-decade-long journey.”