Lamine Yamal Backs Xavi’s Netherlands Role but Draws Line at Spain
Lamine Yamal has backed Xavi to thrive as Netherlands manager — but warned his former Barcelona coach not to expect any favours when Spain are involved. “He can win every international match, except those against Spain,” the 19-year-old said before Barcelona face Feyenoord in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Yamal sends Xavi a Dutch message
The Spain international spoke alongside Hansi Flick ahead of Barcelona’s home meeting with Feyenoord and made clear he still holds Xavi in high regard.
Yamal described the former Barcelona boss as an outstanding coach and expressed confidence that he can make a success of his move into international football with the Dutch national side.
His joking caveat underlined where his loyalties remain: Spain would be the one opponent against whom he would not want Xavi’s Netherlands to win.
Barcelona set Champions League target
Yamal said winning the European Cup is his biggest personal aim for the campaign, with Barcelona determined to go all the way in the competition.
He believes the squad has been strengthened significantly by the summer arrivals, while Flick insisted his group has the quality required to lift the trophy.
- Anthony Gordon is among the new attacking options.
- Rodri has added to Barcelona’s midfield resources.
- Karim Adeyemi provides another forward choice.
- Joao Cancelo has reinforced the defensive unit.
Feyenoord test comes next
Barcelona now turn from their long-term European ambitions to an immediate assignment against Dutch opposition on Wednesday night.
Flick’s side are targeting three points in front of their own fans as they begin their Champions League push. A victory over Feyenoord would provide the opening statement Barcelona want as they chase trophies on more than one front this season.
