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Zlatan's Crystal Ball: Yamal to Shine at World Cup
13 Jun
Summary
- Ibrahimovic praises Yamal as a special player worth expensive tickets.
- Yamal scored 24 goals and 16 assists in 45 games in 2025-26.
- Yamal's hamstring injury in April raises fitness concerns for Spain.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a pundit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has tipped Lamine Yamal as the tournament's main attraction. Ibrahimovic lauded the teenager's unique talent, stating he is the type of player fans pay to see. Yamal's impressive statistics, including 24 goals in the 2025-26 season for Barcelona, highlight his potential.
Yamal, who was named Young Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024, is expected to be a key figure for Spain. Despite his youth, he is already being compared to established stars. His fitness for Spain's opening match against Cabo Verde on June 15 is a concern due to a hamstring injury sustained in April.
Barcelona has reportedly requested that Spain manage Yamal's playing time, suggesting limited minutes in early matches. Spain aims to ease the young star back into play to avoid further setbacks, ensuring he can contribute effectively during the tournament.
