The world’s next footballing genius was born.
Lamine Yamal, a 16-year-old from Spain, became an international sensation in the summer of 2024 when he represented his country at the UEFA European Championship.
Yamal became the youngest player to score in a men’s European Championship match in Spain’s 2-1 win over France in the semi-final on Tuesday.
Spain will face England in the final on July 14, 2024.
Here’s everything you need to know about this teenage prodigy who is still a student.
He was born in Catalonia
Yamal was born in Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona (Catalonia).
Yamal played for two amateur clubs, CF La Toleta and CF Rocafonda, before joining FC Barcelona’s prestigious training centre, La Masia, in 2014.
His parents are of mixed race
Yamal’s mother, Sheila Ebana, was born in Bata, Equatorial Guinea, and his father, Mounir Nasraoui, is from Larache, Morocco.
Because the families come from different backgrounds, Yamal could represent one of three countries: Morocco, Equatorial Guinea or Spain.
Despite choosing Spain, he has other flags emblazoned on his boots.
Yamal also has a brother, Kane, and a sister, Bara.
Yamal sets record at Euro 2024
Yamal has become the youngest player to score at the Men’s European Championships, which will be held in July 2024.
He scored a goal in the 21st minute against France.
Yamal, who also started the match, became the youngest player to appear in the semi-finals of a major international tournament, breaking a record held by Pele for 66 years.
“I don’t know if it’s the best goal of the tournament, but for me it’s the most special goal because it’s the first one I scored with the team at European Championships,” Yamal said. According to the Associated Press.
He could be Barcelona’s next big star after Messi
Having produced one of the greatest players in the history of football, Lionel Messi, Barcelona’s future looks bright.
Yamal is still just 16 years old but is enjoying his breakthrough season at Barcelona.
February 2024, He made history He became the youngest player to appear in the UEFA Champions League when Barcelona and Napoli drew 1-1 in the first leg of the knockout stage.
He turns 17 the day before the Euros final.
