Jorge Mendes has recently insisted that Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal should look to Cristiano Ronaldo as a role model while stressing the need for Italian football to provide more opportunities for young talent.
Mendes, who has been recognized as the best European agent by Tuttosport, represents Yamal, which has been named Golden Boy 2024. The prestigious award ceremony will take place in Turin on Monday 16 December.
During an interview, Tuttosport asked Mendes if Yamal should follow Cristiano Ronaldo’s example to achieve similar success in his career, especially in terms of performance and longevity.
What did Mendes say?
While Mendes is wary of making direct comparisons, he made it clear that Ronaldo’s career serves as an exemplary model for young players, including Yamal.
“I don’t like to make comparisons, but without a doubt Cristiano is a good example to follow, not only for Lamine but for all youngsters.” he began to say.
According to Mendes, if Yamal adopts the same mindset both on and off the pitch as Ronaldo, there is no doubt that he will rise to the top of world football in the coming years.
“If he follows his example on and off the pitch, he will surely be at the top of world football for the next 20 years.”
Mendes went on to praise Yamal’s exceptional talent, stressing that the 17-year-old has already surpassed many of his peers.
He expressed confidence that if Yamal stays focused and avoids distractions, he can potentially win the Ballon d’Or multiple times.
“Lamine is undoubtedly a player of phenomenal talent, who beats everyone else, and he is only 17 years old.
“If he does not get distracted and if he is always focused, I have no doubt that Lamine will win the Ballon d’Or, not once but several times.” he added.
A product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, Yamal has often been compared to Lionel Messi, due to his style of play and potential.
However, Mendes’ proposal to use Ronaldo as a role model gives a different angle to the conversation.
While there is no denying Ronaldo’s greatness, some may find it odd to suggest that a young player from La Masia should look up to a player with such a different style of play.
