Lewandowski reflects on Lamine Yamal’s professional debut: “He…”

Robert Lewandowski, one of the most respected strikers in world football, has shared his thoughts on the astonishing rise of Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old sensation who has taken FC Barcelona and European football by storm. In a recent interview, the Polish forward was full of admiration and insight as he looked back on Yamal’s early days with the first team.

“When Lamine Yamal came to train with us for the first time, he was only 15 years old,” Lewandowski began, his voice filled with genuine awe. “Even then, we could all tell there was something special about him. I’ve never seen a player like him at that age—so confident, so intelligent with the ball. It was extraordinary.”

Yamal’s rapid integration into the senior team was no accident. According to Lewandowski, the teenager’s maturity and understanding of the game immediately stood out. “He has a tactical awareness well beyond his years,” Lewandowski said. “We could have proper conversations on the pitch from day one. That doesn’t happen with many young players.”

The 36-year-old striker, who has played alongside some of the best talents in Europe, emphasized how quickly the squad accepted Yamal as one of their own. “We all saw the potential, and we wanted to help him grow. His development has been natural because he listens, he works, and he respects the game.”

Despite Yamal’s rise, Lewandowski remains cautious about the challenges that lie ahead for the young winger. “Playing at 17 is very different from playing at 18 or 19,” he warned. “Next season, defenders will know more about him. They’ll mark him tighter, try to frustrate him. That’s normal. But it’s how he responds that will define him.”

Lewandowski acknowledged that the demands of professional football can weigh heavily on young shoulders. “This has been a very intense season for him,” he noted. “He needs to rest properly. Recovery is just as important as training. If he burns out early, it could hinder his development.”

But the Polish striker remains confident that Yamal will continue on the right path, especially with the support system Barcelona provides. “In our dressing room, players like me, Szczesny, and Raphinha are always there to guide him,” he said. “We talk often—not just about movement and positioning, but about dealing with pressure, staying focused.”

He also emphasized the importance of mental strength. “Lamine already has the talent. But to thrive at this level, you need to be strong mentally. You must learn how to deal with criticism, expectations, and even your own success. That’s what separates great players from legends.”

According to Lewandowski, Yamal’s hunger and humility are what impress him most. “He’s not arrogant. He listens, he asks questions. He wants to improve. That’s rare in players so young who are already in the spotlight.”

Asked if he sees Yamal as a future leader at Barcelona, Lewandowski did not hesitate. “Without a doubt,” he replied. “If he keeps this mentality, he can be one of the pillars of this team for the next decade. And that’s not an exaggeration.”

He also praised the coaching staff for handling Yamal’s development wisely. “Credit to the club,” Lewandowski said. “They’ve managed his minutes carefully, they’ve protected him when needed, and they’ve allowed him to flourish without putting too much pressure on him.”

Lewandowski then recalled one particular training session that convinced him of Yamal’s uniqueness. “It was a tight game, and he danced past three senior defenders like it was nothing. I looked at Xavi and we both just smiled. It reminded me of what Messi used to do in training.”

Yamal’s impact on the pitch has already been massive. From stunning solo goals to decisive assists in big matches, the young Spaniard has made himself indispensable to Barça’s attacking setup. “He brings unpredictability,” Lewandowski said. “Defenders don’t know whether he’s going to dribble, pass, or shoot. That’s dangerous.”

But Lewandowski also cautioned against burdening Yamal with unrealistic expectations. “Let him be himself,” he urged. “People are quick to call someone the ‘next Messi’ or the ‘new Neymar.’ Lamine is Lamine. He should write his own story.”

In closing, Lewandowski reaffirmed his commitment to helping nurture the next generation at Barcelona. “My role now isn’t just to score goals,” he explained. “It’s also to guide these young players, like Yamal, who represent the future of this club. It’s a responsibility I take seriously.”

As Yamal prepares for another season in the spotlight, he does so with the backing of not just the club and the fans, but also veterans like Lewandowski—who knows exactly what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

With the right guidance, patience, and determination, Lamine Yamal may just become one of the defining players of his generation. And if you ask Lewandowski, that future is already beginning to take shape.