Germany icon issued early warning about Barcelona’s wonderkid before Euro 2024 quarter-final | OneFootball

As the excitement built for the much-anticipated Spain vs. Germany Euro 2024 quarter-final match, a warning from a German football legend has now come into focus.

Klaus Augenthaler, a former German international defender and a true icon of the sport, cautioned his team about the formidable threat posed by a young Spanish player named Lamine Yamal.

Augenthaler, who enjoyed a storied career playing for Bayern Munich from 1975 to 1991, shared his thoughts about Yamal ahead of the match and his comments now seem prophetic.

It must be noted that Yamal has been a standout performer in Euro 2024, and his impact has been nothing short of remarkable. In the quarter-final match against Germany, he played a pivotal role, setting the opening goal that set the stage for Spain’s victory.

Germany never had someone like Yamal

Augenthaler’s admiration for Yamal is rooted in the young player’s extraordinary abilities. Despite his youth, Yamal has demonstrated a level of skill and maturity that is rare for someone his age.

Klaus Augenthaler warned Germany of Lamine Yamal’s danger. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Augenthaler, now 66 years old, has seen countless players come and go, but Yamal’s talent has left a lasting impression on him. He expressed amazement at Yamal’s ability to influence games so decisively, highlighting a detail that piqued his curiosity.

He emphasised that Yamal’s understanding of the game, despite his age, is what sets him apart. He can read the game exceptionally well, anticipate the movements of his opponents, and make split-second decisions that often result in game-changing plays.

“Lamine is 16 years old, it’s incredible,” he said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

“I was recently doing some research and we have never had an international player of that age with such a key role within the national team, it’s admirable,” he added.

The German legend’s words have proven to be insightful and quite correct as Yamal’s performance in the quarter-final was a testament to his exceptional talent and potential.

As the youngest player in the tournament, he has not only met but exceeded expectations, leaving fans and even his teammates in awe of his capabilities.