Former Real Madrid player, coach and executive Jorge Valdano has praised Lamine Yamal’s intelligence and authenticity after conducting an extended interview with the Barcelona forward, arguing that the Spain international should not be condemned for speaking candidly.
Valdano interviewed Yamal for Movistar Plus programme Universo Valdano, which aired on September 18. The conversation covered the Barcelona winger’s ambition, Ballon d’Or hopes, Champions League objectives, experiences of racism and views on Real Madrid.
Writing afterwards in El País, Valdano said the interview had left him with no concern about Yamal’s future despite the remarkable scrutiny surrounding one of world football’s most prominent young players.
“After interviews, certain impressions always remain,” Valdano wrote. “My impression is that we are dealing with an intelligent young man, and there is no reason whatsoever to be concerned about his future.”
Valdano’s assessment
The 70-year-old Argentine highlighted Yamal’s spontaneity, intelligence and ability to remain connected to his background amid rapid fame and expectation.
“At 19 years old, the real miracle is to go so far without forgetting who you are,” Valdano wrote.
Valdano also rejected the suggestion that Yamal’s plain speaking should be treated as a problem. Referring to criticism of some of the Barcelona player’s public remarks, he argued that honesty should not be converted into an accusation.
“He told the truth, and what is astonishing is that we considered telling the truth a sin,” Valdano said.
Interview themes
In the interview, Yamal spoke openly about the Ballon d’Or, naming himself and Kylian Mbappé as the two players he regards as the world’s best. He said he believed he deserved the award this year based on what he had won, while also acknowledging that the final decision was outside his control.
He also discussed Barcelona’s European ambitions, saying the club must believe it can compete to win the Champions League. On a potential meeting with Real Madrid in the competition, he said he would like Barcelona to face their rivals in Europe.
Yamal further addressed racist abuse he has experienced, including at the Santiago Bernabéu. He told Valdano that racism can appear not only in direct abuse but also in comments and looks whose racist meaning may not be recognised by those making them.
Valdano’s response therefore offers a notable endorsement from a figure closely associated with Real Madrid: Yamal’s confidence and honesty, in his view, are signs of a grounded and intelligent player rather than evidence of a player losing perspective.
