Ivan Rakitic has shared an important message for Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, emphasizing that extraordinary talent in elite football comes with equally extraordinary pressure. The former Barcelona midfielder believes that the young star must fully understand the challenges that come with a rapid rise to prominence.
Rakitic acknowledges Yamal’s development as remarkable. However, he reminds the youngster that a long career at the top level is always marked by highs and lows.
Having spent six seasons at Barcelona himself, Rakitic knows the weight of expectations at a club of such stature. He also understands how quickly a young player can enter the spotlight, only to face the dual pressures of performance expectations and the risk of injury.
“Lamine Yamal Must Walk His Own Path”
Rakitic sees Yamal as a truly special talent whose trajectory is heading in the right direction. He emphasizes that the young Barcelona star already understands that life at the highest level is not just filled with glory but also with challenges such as injuries and intense scrutiny.
For this reason, Rakitic stresses that Yamal must carve his own path. He should not be constantly compared to past Barcelona icons or other football legends.
“I would say Lamine is an extraordinary player, which is why I am proud of him as he continues to develop and progress,” Rakitic told Flashscore. “Everything is moving in the right direction, and he’s starting to realize that football has another side—injuries and pressure he will face. I think he must follow his own path. I won’t compare him to the three players I mentioned. Barcelona and Spain have something special in him, and we all must help him learn to handle the pressure. He truly is a special player.”
Rakitic Praises Barcelona’s Special Asset
Having played alongside some of the biggest names in football, Rakitic feels qualified to offer his perspective on Yamal. He sees both Barcelona and Spain as custodians of a unique talent who must be nurtured carefully.
Rakitic highlights that Yamal’s growth cannot be separated from the support of those around him. Young players in elite football need guidance to manage the pressures that come with early stardom.
“Barcelona and Spain have something very special in Lamine,” Rakitic said. “We all need to help him learn how to manage the pressure. He is a truly special player.”
Memories of Playing with the Legendary MSN Trio
Rakitic is no stranger to Barcelona fans. During his six seasons at the club, he had the unique privilege of playing alongside one of football’s most legendary attacking trios: Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Neymar—collectively known as MSN.
As a midfielder, Rakitic frequently supplied the trio with key passes, contributing to a period of football history that remains unforgettable.
“It was brilliant to play alongside them. That period was extraordinary—not just for the club but for world football,” he reflected. “It was the best thing that could happen to football, and for me, it was a joy—not just playing with them but also training alongside them.”
Rakitic’s advice to Lamine Yamal is clear: immense talent comes with immense responsibility. By staying focused, avoiding comparisons, and learning to manage pressure, Yamal has the chance to become a defining figure for both Barcelona and Spain. The path will not be easy, but with guidance and maturity, he can transform early promise into a legendary career.
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