Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has addressed the challenge of containing Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup final against Spain. Scaloni humorously suggested that the only way to stop the young player would be to keep him off the pitch, stating, “How to stop Yamal? I wish we could lock Lamine in his room.”
The final will see Argentina and Spain compete for the top international football prize. Yamal has drawn considerable attention throughout the tournament due to his impactful performances, earning praise from both teammates and opposing figures.
Scaloni’s assessment of Yamal and Spain
Scaloni later adopted a more serious tone when discussing Yamal’s rapid ascent in football. He described the teenager as a “fantastic player” and a “treasure for football,” noting his youth and potential to contribute significantly to the sport. The Argentina coach acknowledged Yamal’s quality and the substantial impact he has already made despite his young age.
Beyond individual players, Scaloni also expressed his respect for the entire Spain squad. He revealed that his coaching staff has dedicated months to analysing Luis de la Fuente’s team, anticipating a potential encounter in the later stages of the tournament. While Yamal has been a focal point of discussion, Scaloni emphasised that Argentina is preparing to face a complete Spain side, rather than focusing solely on one player.
“Everything about Spain worries me,” Scaloni remarked, adding a light-hearted comment about attempting to get the coach to leave the hotel. The reigning World Cup champions have closely monitored Spain’s progress throughout the competition. They anticipate a demanding match against De la Fuente’s team, whose possession-based style of play has been instrumental in La Roja reaching another major final.
Scaloni confirmed that Argentina had been analysing Spain as a potential World Cup opponent since December. He clarified that this analysis was no more extensive than for any other potential adversary, indicating a thorough preparation process for various scenarios. He also noted that over-analysing opponents can be counterproductive, stating, “We know how they play.”
Comments on Messi’s future and earlier remarks
The Argentina coach was also questioned about the future of Lionel Messi and whether the final could mark his last appearance in a World Cup. Scaloni admitted he was uncertain about Messi’s plans, stating, “I don’t know, what do I know? I haven’t got a clue. Because he never ceases to surprise us.” He indicated that this is a question best directed to Messi himself, as he had not discussed it with the player.
Earlier in the tournament, Scaloni had responded to comments made by Yamal regarding the strength of various teams. Yamal had previously described a semifinal match between Spain and France as an “early final,” considering them the “two best teams at the World Cup” and notably omitting Argentina from his assessment. Scaloni, however, agreed with Yamal’s perspective rather than creating controversy.
“I agree with him. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with what he said (Lamine) because, of course, that match is an early final,” Scaloni stated. He further explained that even before the World Cup began, both Spain and France were considered among the favourites. Scaloni acknowledged that Spain deserved to win against Belgium and France performed strongly against Morocco in their respective matches. He concluded by noting the unfortunate reality that only one of those teams could advance to the final.
These remarks were made as Scaloni prepared his team, still led by Lionel Messi, for a crucial quarterfinal match against Switzerland, with a place in the World Cup semifinals at stake.
Read Also
Source: barcauniversal.com
Arjun Sharma
Sports Reporter