Lamine Yamal is in Spain’s 26-man squad for Euro 2024 (Picture: Getty)
16-year-old Lamine Yamal revealed he will have to balance chasing Euro 2024 glory with Spain and his school summer deadlines after bringing his homework to Germany.
Yamal became a regular part of Xavis’ starting line-up for Barcelona’s last season having made his debut at the age of just 15.
And the youngster enjoyed a breakout first full season in La Liga, notching up five goals and eight assists in 37 league appearances.
Such form earned him a spot in Luis de la Fuente’s 26-man squad for the tournament where Yamal can become the youngest-ever player at a Euro finals.
The winger already has two goals in his seven appearances for La Roja but admitted he will have to focus on things outside of just football in the coming weeks.
‘I brought my homework here because I’m in the 4th year of ESO [Spanish secondary school],’ Yamal revealed when he spoke to the media ahead of the tournament.
‘I have online classes too and those are going fine. I hope the teacher doesn’t get mad at me.’
Yamal made his Barcelona debut aged 15 (Picture: Getty)
When asked further about his age, Yamal added: ‘I try to focus on the present, on the now, which is the European Championship, and focus on the games.
‘I don’t think about comparisons. I try to be me, play my game and get people to recognize me for being Lamine.
‘Not long ago, I was watching the Euros from my sofa. During the Euro 2021, I was in a shopping centre watching with my friends and now I’m here playing.’
Spain get their tournament underway against Croatia on Sunday and coach De la Fuente is certain Yamal can play a key role for his side.
‘This kind of footballer is a special breed,’ the 62-year-old said of the Barcelona winger.
‘It’s unusual for a 16-year-old boy to have that kind of self-confidence, the ability to play and look like a veteran. Because only the chosen ones have that.’
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