Barcelona’s young winger Lamine Yamal expressed on Monday that he is drawing inspiration from basketball legend LeBron James and Brazilian football star Neymar as he gears up for a crucial Champions League showdown against Atletico Madrid.
The Catalan outfit faced a 2-0 setback in last week’s quarter-final first leg at home but aims to stage a comeback on Tuesday at the Metropolitano Stadium to secure a spot in the final four for the second year running.
Yamal changed his Instagram profile picture to an iconic image of James holding the NBA finals trophy in 2016, a reminder of the moment he propelled the Cleveland Cavaliers to an unprecedented victory over the Golden State Warriors while trailing 3-1.
“He’s one of the key figures who inspires me for tomorrow’s match, which is why I chose that image,” Yamal stated to the media.
“I’ll reflect on his achievements, and I’m hopeful mine will follow a similar path.”
On a more personal note, Neymar played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s remarkable comeback during the 2017 Champions League round of 16 against Paris Saint-Germain.
Following a heavy 4-0 loss in the first leg in Paris, Barcelona turned the tables with a stunning 6-1 victory to advance to the quarter-finals.
“I’ve watched that match countless times and also witnessed it live,” remarked the 18-year-old.
“Neymar is a player who has significantly influenced my childhood; he is my idol, and I will always be grateful for what he’s contributed to football.
“He’s the kind of talent that makes you want to buy a ticket just to see him play… I hope he’ll be at the World Cup.”
Yamal made a significant impact for Barca last season, helping them achieve a domestic treble, although their European journey was halted by a semi-final defeat to Inter Milan.
The Spain international, who was awarded second place as the best player in the world at the Ballon d’Or last year, faced intense marking from Atletico in the first leg, often being double or even triple teamed.
“I think Lamine has been performing exceptionally well in recent matches, and I advise him to focus on areas where he currently excels—those one-on-one situations,” commented Flick.
The young talent expressed his eagerness for more freedom in the upcoming leg.
“I feel great and am really looking forward to tomorrow’s match; I’m hoping to make a significant impact,” Yamal said.
“Let’s see if (Simeone) grants me the favour of a one-on-one against a defender.”
Compiled by SportArena.au
Fanpage: SportArena.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
