There have always been rivalries in soccer that seem impossible to overcome. However, there are moments when talent is so evident that even traditional enemies end up surrendering.
This is what has happened with Lamine Yamal, the great gem from Barça's youth academy, who has found an unexpected admirer in a historic Real Madrid legend.
The praise doesn't come from just any figure, but from a former footballer who experienced the hottest clásicos of the 21st century firsthand. Someone who defended the white jersey and who, despite the rivalry, has shown absolute respect for the Barça and Spain star.
McManaman breaks the mold
Steve McManaman, who wore white between 1999 and 2003 and won two Champions League titles with Real Madrid, has expressed his opinion about Lamine Yamal on the Premier Sports platform.
The former midfielder made it clear that we're looking at a player who can define an era and who is destined to write golden pages in the history of European soccer.
"We already talked about him last year. He's the star of La Liga, what he did in the last touch of the match was absolutely brilliant," McManaman said about Barça's 3-0 play in Mallorca.
He added: "I love Lamine Yamal. He's absolutely brilliant. For someone so young, it's unbelievable what he's doing."
These words have spread like wildfire on social media. Many Culers there have applauded the recognition from a Madridist legend toward one of their own.
He said more: "He has the ability to move to the left, where he's strong, but also to go to the right. He has everything right now and he's going to get better."
McManaman insists that "I hope Barça saves him a bit and doesn't necessarily use him in matches that are going well. Because he's going to infuriate the opponent with his talent."
He concludes: "What a player we have on our hands. It's an absolute joy to come here and watch him play."
The precocity of a genius
The blaugrana player, who just turned 18, has already left his mark in high-stakes matches. Both in La Liga and in the European Championship, Yamal has shown that his talent knows no age or stage.
That's why it's no surprise that figures from the past, used to being around world-class footballers, surrender to his talent.
McManaman also highlighted the youth academy product's ability to withstand the pressure of being at Barça and on the Spanish national team:
"He's already an incredibly mature player, he behaves as if he's been playing at the highest level for ten years." This recognition highlights Lamine's personality, as he faces every match as if he were a veteran.
A future that scares Europe
With Flick's trust in Barça and De la Fuente's support in Spain, Lamine's growth seems unstoppable. His natural talent is complemented by the discipline of a club that knows it has a diamond in its hands who will define an era.
The fact that former Real Madrid players, like McManaman, speak about him in these terms is proof that Yamal has no ceiling.
At Camp Nou, they celebrate it, while in Chamartín, they watch with resignation as admiration for the young Culer is starting to become unanimous.