Andres Iniesta believes 16-year-old Lamine Yamal has the skill and character to be among the best players of FIFA World Cup 2026. Iniesta, who has watched the likes of Lionel Messi, Pele and Kylian Mbappe take the footballing world by storm at a young age, believes Barcelona and Spain winger Ansu Fati possesses similar traits.
During the Opening of his new Academy in Dubai, Iniesta hailed Yamal as a one-in-ten-million talent with the potential to have an electric impact on the global game, just like himself did during Spain’s successful UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers.
Why Iniesta Rates Yamal So Highly
The 16-year-old dazzled at Euro 2024 for Yamal.
Scored a glorious goal in the semifinal vs France.
Recorded four assists in the tournament.
Assisted Spain in the final to a 2-1 victory over England for the title.
Instrumental in recent league triumphs at Barcelona.
Iniesta’s Praise for the Young Star
According to Iniesta:
Yamal has a one of a kind unique skillset
For Barcelona, he always performs at a high level.
At such a young age, his accomplishments are unimaginable.
A critical player for Spain entering the World Cup.
Iniesta also revealed he was sure Yamal will be alright after limping off with a hamstring issue and added he would be fit for Spain’s opening World Cup clash with Cabo Verde on June 15.
Spain Among the Favorites for World Cup Glory
The former Spain captain believes his national team has a genuine chance of lifting the World Cup trophy in North America.
Key reasons behind Spain’s strong prospects:
- A talented and well-balanced squad.
- Proven winning mentality after securing the Euro 2024 title.
- Strong team chemistry under coach Luis de la Fuente.
- Possession-based football reminiscent of Spain’s golden era.
Spain’s Road to the Title
Iniesta compared the current Spanish side to the legendary team that won:
- UEFA Euro 2008
- FIFA World Cup 2010
- UEFA Euro 2012
While acknowledging tough competition from Argentina, France, England, and Portugal, Iniesta believes Spain remain among the world’s top teams.
“The Best Team in the World”
Iniesta asserted that Spain are currently “one of the three best teams in the world” and could be the best team in world football right now. Spain has every chance of achieving victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 thanks to the balance between experienced players and rising youngsters such as Lamine Yamal, he believes.
With the tournament nearing, all eyes will be on Yamal to see if he can repeat what many of football’s best youngsters have achieved at this level and guide Spain back to world title glory.