First reaction from Barcelona starlet on The Best XI achievement – ‘I don’t want to forget Xavi’

Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, continues to capture the world’s attention after an unforgettable 2024.

Following his remarkable achievements, which include winning the Kopa Trophy and the Golden Boy award for the best under-21 player globally, the young Barça winger has now been named in FIFA’s Best XI of the Year during their annual gala.

Yamal’s inclusion in this prestigious line-up is a testament to his exceptional performances throughout the year.

Lamine Yamal’s message

His contributions have been pivotal not only for Barcelona but also for Spain, especially during their triumphant European Championship campaign.

“I just wanted to thank FIFA for nominating me for the team of the year. I’m very happy. 

“As always, I want to thank my coaches and my teammates who have helped me to be nominated for this award and throughout the season,” he began saying. 

At just 17 years old, Yamal’s rise to the top is nothing short of extraordinary, making him the only Barcelona player to feature in FIFA’s best eleven for 2024.

“I don’t want to forget Xavi, who was my first coach and who helped me with everything. Also, Hansi and Luis [de la Fuente], who helped me win my first European Championship. 

“I’m very happy to receive these individual awards, hopefully, now the collective awards will come. It’s an honour to be nominated at 17 years old,” he added.

Among the best

His inclusion places him among football’s elite, sharing the stage with notable names like Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr., who secured The Best award, and teammates such as Dani Carvajal, Toni Kroos, Jude Bellingham, and Antonio Rudiger.

The line-up also includes other global stars like Rodri, who claimed the Ballon d’Or this year, Erling Haaland, Ruben Dias, William Saliba, and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

Key to his inclusion was his vital role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory and his significant influence on Barcelona’s progress over the past year.

Yamal’s performances have cemented his place not only as a cornerstone of Barça’s future but also as a symbol of Spain’s footballing success.

With individual accolades piling up, the hope now is that collective triumphs for Barça will follow soon, solidifying his place as a modern football icon.