Jorge Mendes has recently highlighted that Barcelona’s rising star, Lamine Yamal, should look to Cristiano Ronaldo as a role model while also emphasizing the need for Italian football to give more opportunities to young talents.
Mendes, who has been recognized as the Best European agent by Tuttosport, represents Yamal, who has been named the 2024 Golden Boy. The prestigious award ceremony is set to take place in Turin on Monday, December 16.
During an interview, Tuttosport asked Mendes if Yamal should follow the example of Cristiano Ronaldo to achieve similar success in his career, particularly in terms of accomplishments and longevity.
What did Mendes say?
While Mendes is cautious about 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 young people,” he began saying.
According to Mendes, if Yamal adopts the same mindset both on and off the field as Ronaldo, there is little doubt that he will rise to the top of world football in the years to come.
Jorge Mendes has asked Lamine Yamal to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
“If he follows his example on and off the pitch, he will surely be at the top of world football in the next 20 years.”
Mendes went on to praise Yamal’s exceptional talent, emphasizing that the 17-year-old has already surpassed many of his peers.
He expressed confidence that if Yamal stays focused and avoids distractions, he could potentially win the Ballon d’Or multiple times.
“Lamine is without a doubt a player with phenomenal talent, who beats all the others, and he is only 17 years old.
“If he doesn’t get distracted and if he always stays focused, I have no doubt that Lamine will win the Ballon d’Or, not once but several times,” he added.
Yamal, who is a product of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, has often been compared to Lionel Messi, owing to his playing style and potential.
However, Mendes’ suggestion to use Ronaldo as a role model adds a different angle to the conversation.
While there is no denying Ronaldo’s greatness, some may find it unusual to suggest that a young player from La Masia should look up to a player with such a different style of play.