Barcelona, Spain — Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, has declared Barcelona’s teenage prodigy, Lamine Yamal, as the finest football talent in the world today.
Ferdinand’s bold claim followed Yamal’s breathtaking display during Barcelona’s pulsating 3-3 draw with Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday night.
At just 17, Yamal stunned fans with a dazzling solo goal, reigniting Barça’s fight after falling behind 2-0 within the opening 21 minutes. Despite being the youngest on the pitch, the Spanish winger emerged as the creative heartbeat of his team throughout the match.
Ferdinand, clearly awestruck, took to social media platform X to express his admiration, writing: “As a pure football talent, I genuinely believe Lamine Yamal is above any player currently competing in the top five leagues. 17 years old – it’s unreal.”
While offering live co-commentary for TNT Sports, Ferdinand was vocal in his praise, repeatedly applauding Yamal’s confidence, creativity, and ability to dominate on Europe’s biggest stage.
“This kid is outrageous. He’s doing things most veterans wouldn’t dare attempt at this level,” Ferdinand exclaimed as Yamal struck a goal and nearly added another after smashing a shot off the bar.
Ferdinand continued his admiration post-match, describing it as a privilege to witness Yamal’s artistry up close. “We sat right behind him as he mesmerized the stadium. His control, flair, and game intelligence were just a joy to watch,” he told TNT Sports.
The thrilling encounter saw Inter Milan take an early lead through Marcus Thuram and Denzel Dumfries, but Yamal’s brilliance sparked a Barcelona comeback, aided by goals from Ferran Torres and Raphinha, the latter’s shot deflecting in off Inter’s Yann Sommer to secure the draw.
Yamal’s participation had been in doubt after he left the warm-up prematurely due to an injury scare, but he returned just in time to deliver one of his most electrifying performances to date.
With such commanding displays on the grandest stage, Ferdinand concluded that Yamal’s name belongs among future Ballon d’Or contenders.
By Enoch Odesola | May 1, 2025
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