Rashford: “Playing alongside Lamine Yamal is truly an extraordinary experience because his talent is nothing short of phenomenal. From the moment he steps onto the pitch, it’s clear that he possesses a unique blend of skill, intelligence, and fearlessness that distinguishes him from many other players, regardless of age or experience. Last season, I observed him closely, and it became evident that he was not just a promising prospect — he was consistently one of the most outstanding players in every match he featured in. In fact, in my eyes, he ranked among the very best footballers in the world, if not the outright best.
What impresses me most about Lamine isn’t just his technical ability to dribble past defenders or his knack for scoring crucial goals. It’s his exceptional football IQ — his capacity to read the game several steps ahead, anticipate plays, and make split-second decisions with composure and precision that is rare even among seasoned professionals. His vision allows him to create opportunities not only for himself but for his teammates, making him a true playmaker. Despite his young age, he exhibits a maturity and calmness on the field that you’d expect from a veteran player.
For me personally, playing alongside such a gifted player is a constant source of inspiration. It challenges me to elevate my own game, to match his intensity and creativity, and to work harder every day. There’s a special kind of energy and enthusiasm that Lamine brings to the team — his passion for the game is contagious and has a positive impact on everyone around him. He’s not just playing for himself but for the collective success of the squad, and that attitude fosters a strong sense of unity and ambition.
Looking ahead, the future feels incredibly bright with Lamine as part of the team. His potential to grow, develop, and become a defining player of his generation is undeniable. I am genuinely excited to be part of this journey alongside him — watching his evolution, learning from his talents, and contributing to the legacy he is destined to build. Players like Lamine Yamal don’t come around often, and having the privilege to play with him makes every game and every training session something special.”
