'Remember he's mortal!' - Spain hero Lamine Yamal compared to Julius Caesar after dazzling display vs France as Luis de la Fuente stresses importance of 'keeping his feet on the ground'

In a captivating Euro 2024 semi-final match at Munich’s Allianz Arena, 16-year-old Yamal delivered a performance that not only secured Spain's place in the final but also etched his name into the annals of football history - as he became the youngest player ever to score in a major international tournament. Yamal’s equalizer in the 21st minute was a moment of magic. Curling the ball in from well outside the area, he not only brought Spain back into the game but also broke Brazil legend Pele’s long-standing record.

Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente was enthralled with Yamal's performance and described him as someone who has a "touch of genius". He also emphasized the importance of keeping the young star grounded and to drive home his point, he drew an analogy with renowned Roman general Julius Caesar.

De la Fuente told reporters: “We saw a touch of genius from a footballer who we all need to take care of. We have to help him by keeping his feet on the ground and developing him in the best way. That's about calm and tranquillity. In Ancient Rome, when they talked about Caesar they would say: 'Remember he's mortal!' Fundamentally I celebrate that he’s on our team, he’s Spanish, and we hope we can enjoy him for years to come."

The Barcelona winger's journey has already been marked by significant achievements. Having won La Liga with Barcelona in the 2022-23 season, Yamal is now on the brink of winning his second major trophy and his first with the Spanish national team. With Yamal’s exceptional form and the team’s renewed vigour, Spain look poised to reclaim their status as Europe’s best when they take the pitch on Sunday for the final, against either England or the Netherlands.