“I can’t handle more of him than that”: Lamine Yamal took a cheeky dig at a Spain teammate when asked about a possible club link-up

As Spain prepares for a blockbuster UEFA Nations League semifinal clash against World Cup holders France, all eyes are once again on the prodigious talent of Lamine Yamal. The 17-year-old Barcelona winger has become a household name in European football, with his dazzling footwork and mature decision-making defying his age. However, in a recent interview, Yamal made headlines not for his footballing skills—but for a cheeky comment aimed at a national teammate.

When asked whether he’d be interested in linking up with Spain winger Nico Williams at the club level, Yamal smirked and dropped a playful jab: “That’s enough for me, it’s enough (national level),” before bursting into laughter. Then, with perfect comedic timing, he followed up: “Yeah, I can’t handle more of him than that! This way is better.”

The room erupted in laughter, but the moment hinted at deeper layers—both in terms of squad dynamics and Barcelona’s ongoing transfer market drama. The remark may have been tongue-in-cheek, but the context surrounding it reveals a lot about where Yamal—and the club—stand regarding Nico Williams.

Last summer, FC Barcelona were heavily linked with Nico Williams. The club was actively searching for a new winger to complement Yamal and give the team more width, speed, and creativity in wide areas. With Nico flourishing at Athletic Club and showing incredible form, he quickly became a top target for the Blaugrana hierarchy.

Negotiations, however, fell through. Despite heavy interest from Barcelona, Nico opted to remain loyal to his boyhood club, Athletic Bilbao. His decision reportedly left some in the Camp Nou offices disappointed—particularly President Joan Laporta, who was keen on adding a young Spanish talent with top-level experience.

Barcelona eventually shifted their attention to RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo, who offered a different profile—more tactical versatility and attacking fluidity across multiple positions. Financial constraints and the high release clause of Nico Williams—reportedly around €50 million—also played a role in pulling the plug on the deal.

Yamal’s cheeky comment may also reflect those tensions. While it’s highly unlikely that the teenager meant any disrespect, it adds fuel to the growing narrative that Nico’s ship to Barcelona may have already sailed. And perhaps, from Yamal’s point of view, that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

There’s also the psychological aspect to consider. As a 17-year-old commanding a starting spot in both club and national team setups, Yamal is learning how to handle media attention, locker room dynamics, and potential transfer politics. His quip shows both personality and a growing sense of media savvy.

Behind the laughter, the message was clear: Barcelona may no longer be desperate for Nico. The club has other options, and Yamal himself is a symbol of their present and future. Nico’s rejection in the previous transfer window might’ve closed a door that will stay shut.

For fans and analysts, the incident also raises an interesting debate. Could a future partnership between Yamal and Nico work at club level? On paper, yes. Their styles are complementary—Nico’s explosive pace on the left could balance Yamal’s technical brilliance on the right. But chemistry on the pitch isn’t always mirrored off it, and squad dynamics play a huge role in transfer decisions.

In fact, the Spanish national team setup could be the only place where fans get to see the duo in action regularly. Their roles under coach Luis de la Fuente are clear, and both players seem to thrive with the freedom offered in the national setup.

What also stood out from the interview was how effortlessly Yamal handled a potentially tricky question. At such a young age, he’s already aware of how narratives form and how to walk the tightrope between being candid and diplomatic. That type of media maturity is rare and refreshing.

Interestingly, Isco—recently called up to the Spain squad—joked in another interview that his kids were more excited about the fact he’ll be playing alongside Lamine Yamal. It’s clear the teenager is not just a teammate; he’s a phenomenon, even among senior players.

Barcelona fans, too, have taken to social media to comment on Yamal’s remark. Some see it as a playful sign of confidence, while others interpret it as a clear message: Nico had his chance, and the club has moved on.

In the end, it’s moments like these—light-hearted, unscripted, and entirely authentic—that reveal the human side of football. Yamal’s response, whether calculated or spontaneous, reflects the confidence of a player who knows his value and isn’t afraid to speak his mind.

With the UEFA Nations League semifinal just around the corner, the focus will soon return to the pitch. Spain will need both Yamal and Nico at their best to get past a stacked French side. Whether they’re teasing each other in interviews or combining on the field, their chemistry will be crucial.

But when the summer transfer window reopens, don’t expect Barcelona to chase after Nico again. Between Laporta’s firm stance and Yamal’s thinly veiled message, it seems the club has already turned the page.

For now, fans can enjoy the banter, but behind the humor lies a subtle shift in Barcelona’s direction—a move toward players who choose the club first, without hesitation.