Harry Kane has extended his birthday wishes to Spanish teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who just turned 17. Kane also commended Yamal on his outstanding performances at Euro 2024.
The Barcelona winger has broken several records, including becoming the youngest player to score at a major tournament with his stunning goal in the semi-final victory over France.
As Yamal prepares to play a pivotal role in Spain’s final against England on Sunday, Kane acknowledged the young star’s fearless approach and significant impact on the field.
“I want to wish him a happy birthday. He’s a fantastic player. At 17 years old, to do this in a tournament like this says a lot about him. You can see that he plays without fear, with freedom, enjoying himself… He’s going to be one of the most difficult players in the match. I want to congratulate him on what he’s done so far,” said Kane.
Yamal, alongside Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, has been instrumental for Spain, creating a formidable winger duo.
England’s Luke Shaw recognized their impressive performances but stressed the importance of focusing on the entire Spanish team.
“I think Spain’s wingers have been unbelievable at this tournament. Massive credit to them. But I don’t think we can focus too much on them – I think we have to focus on the whole team. We understand their threats, where their dangerous players are,” Shaw commented.
Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, has praised Yamal’s natural talent and highlighted the importance of maintaining his values and professionalism as he grows.
“The special thing right now is how difficult it is to do what he’s doing at 16 with such naturalness. But our responsibility as those who help shape him, above and beyond coaching, is to help him maintain his values, humility, responsibility, professionalism. These things will make him an even better person as he grows up, and then an even better footballer. To our great fortune, he’s Spanish and hopefully we’ll be enjoying a great footballer, if he has luck, for a long time at the top of the world game,” said de la Fuente.
The Euro 2024 final will be broadcast live on NBS Sport.
