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Saudi Arabia coach praises Lamine Yamal as top global talent

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 8:10 AM

Last updated Jun 21, 2026

Saudi Arabia coach praises Lamine Yamal as top global talent

Summary

Saudi Arabia coach Georgios Donis has praised Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, calling him potentially the greatest talent in world football. Speaking ahead of the match between Spain and Saudi Arabia today, Donis highlighted Yamal's maturity and ability to impact the game, suggesting he could help replace Lionel Messi at Barcelona. Donis noted that Spain lacks an edge when Yamal is not on the pitch, emphasizing the unique skills he brings to the team. The match will test if Yamal starts, as his performance is seen as critical for Spain's World Cup hopes.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Lamine Yamal is 18 years old and plays for Barcelona.
•Georgios Donis compares Yamal's impact to that of Lionel Messi.
•Spain's effectiveness diminishes without Yamal and Nico Williams.
•The match against Saudi Arabia is scheduled for today.
•Donis suggests Yamal's playing time may vary depending on the scoreline.

Latest Updates

8:10 AMYahoo Sports — Saudi Arabia coach hails Lamine Yamal as world’s greatest talent: ‘Started to replace Messi in Barcelona’

What they're saying

"
Barcelona star Lamine Yamal simply cannot stop collecting accolades, with everyone, including opposition teams and managers, in awe of the talent on display.His ascent to the highest level of the game...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Barcelona LaLiga Soccer