CORNERFLICK
Gavi has said Lamine Yamal has the qualities to become one of the greatest players in football history, while warning that the Barcelona winger will face constant scrutiny from here on.
Gavi on Yamal’s ceiling
In a new interview with Men’s Health, the Barcelona midfielder praised his club and Spain team-mate’s level in training and said his mentality is just as striking as his technique.
“He is incredible. He is really a very good player, and in training he surprises you even more,” Gavi said.
He added that Yamal knows what he wants and can still go much further. “I just hope he keeps improving. He is aware of the potential he has and can become one of the best players in history.”
Gavi also said the 19-year-old’s strength of mind matters most if he is to keep rising at the top level.
Pressure, injuries and perspective
The midfielder then turned to his own career, saying he now feels more pressure than he did when he broke into Barcelona’s first team at 17.
“Now I feel much more pressure than when I was 17,” he said. “Back then I really didn’t realise where I was. The younger I was, the more I enjoyed football.”
Gavi said injuries have changed the way he sees the game, making him more patient and more careful with his body. He also said seeing a psychologist can help players in good times and bad, and that he would like to try it in future.