Barcelona star Lamine Yamal reserved special mentions for three managers, after being honoured with a place in FIFA’s ‘The Best’ XI.
The annual The Best ceremony – which aims to recognise the standout performers from across world football over the 12 months prior – was held on Tuesday evening.
Amongst the noteworthy prize-winners were Real Madrid pair Vinícius Jr. and Carlo Ancelotti, named ‘The Best Player’ and ‘The Best Coach’ respectively.
And yet, in the aftermath of the gala, much of the chatter has centered on a member of the attacking ranks on the other half of the Clásico divide.
This comes after Lamine Yamal, at just 17, was named in ‘The Best’ XI, as the standout right winger in the game.
Speaking after learning of as much, youngster Lamine therefore made use of the opportunity to send a message of appreciation to the man who afforded him his debut at senior level, in ex-Barcelona boss Xavi:
“I can’t forget about Xavi. He was my first manager at the top level and he gave me everything.”
He continued:
“I want to thank Xavi, Hansi (Flick), and Luis (De la Fuente) for the national team. He gave me my first Euro trophy.”
Conor Laird – GSFN