Javier Clemente didn’t wait for the story to cool down before voicing his concern about Lamine Yamal. The former Spain coach said the young Barcelona forward needs to rethink his off-field behavior so he doesn’t jeopardize his own career, which is still in its early stages but already surrounded by high expectations. In an interview with Cadena SER radio, he was straightforward when he said, “As a player he’s very good, but the problem is that if in his personal life he doesn’t behave correctly as an athlete, he won’t last long. That’s clear. They won’t allow it,” a comment that gained traction right after the player’s recent removal from the national team.
Yamal’s exclusion from the squad happened after Barcelona carried out a treatment on the player without informing the Spanish federation, which caused internal discomfort and raised questions about the alignment between club, player and national team. The situation expanded the debate around the teenager, who’s living a moment of high exposure while facing increasingly strict evaluations of his conduct.
Clemente’s technical opinion reinforces attention to Yamal’s playing style
Clemente didn’t limit his remarks to personal behavior. According to him, Yamal’s on-field performance also requires care, since opponents are starting to understand how the forward moves and creates plays. The former coach said, “He does brilliant things, but the rivals already know how he plays, they know how to watch him. They know he’s one of the players who can’t be allowed to play freely because he has so much quality that he can do many things. He’ll face very special marking and close attention,” highlighting that the youngster’s talent naturally draws heavy defensive pressure.
The point Clemente raised isn’t about a drop in form, but about a scenario in which Yamal already has to deal with detailed analysis of his characteristics. Standing out so early brings advantages, but it also adds responsibilities, and managing that balance becomes a crucial part of any young athlete’s growth.
Spain heads into a decisive match without the young forward
Without Yamal, the Spanish national team is preparing to face Georgia this Saturday in the UEFA World Cup qualifiers. The match could secure their spot in the tournament, which would ease some of the tension, but the forward’s absence still weighs on internal discussions.
The current situation makes it clear that the player is going through a delicate moment. He remains one of the biggest promises in Spanish soccer, but he needs to reorganize his environment to avoid further issues. Both his club and the national team rely on his talent, and the road ahead depends on his ability to balance performance, focus and responsibility.