Yamal Is Brilliant, Not The Savior: Raul Urges Patience for Spain

Spain’s World Cup Hopes and Yamal's Path

Spain’s World Cup hopes depend on a blend of experience and youth, Raul Gonzalez told reporters, as La Roja prepare for the summer tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He singled out Lamine Yamal, a rising star at Barcelona, as a player who will matter greatly but not be expected to carry the team alone.

Yamal's Role and the Team's Balance

Raul emphasized that Yamal needs teammates to help him grow and to relieve pressure. "We know Yamal will be important, but he will not be the centerpiece. There are players with more experience who must help him shine on the pitch, steady the pressure, and prevent him from being seen as our savior in every game. Give him his own space... he has immense talent and a bright future, proven at his club and for Spain."

He recalled his own first impression of Yamal during a Brazil friendly at the Santiago Bernabeu, saying, "The first match I watched live was at the Bernabeu, and he was at another level. He is adapting in his own way, and I think there are still things to polish. If he performs well, he’ll help us get closer to lifting our second World Cup."

Raul also analyzed Real Madrid's season, adding: "The team is among the eight best in Europe, and while we dropped the league pace after the Clasico, the real battles start in April and the titles are decided in May."

He concluded: "We must be patient. We have a new coach (Xabi Alonso) with fresh ideas and a highly competitive squad, and we must wait. Barcelona are strong, and Atletico Madrid are the dark horse, having signed quality players. Both will push us to the limit in La Liga and other domestic cups, but I trust our team. Everything will be fine, and I hope the trophies come."

P.S. Punchlines for a lighter touch: If patience were a weapon, we’d already win the World Cup—call it a strategic delay with a killer smile. Our defense is so calm that even the ball signs a peace treaty before every pass.