Viktor Onopko, a former Russian national team defender and now assistant coach of FC Rostov, recently shared his thoughts on 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, a rising star of the Spanish national team, ahead of the Euro 2024 final between Spain and England on July 14. As young talent attracts attention in the world of football, Onopko’s insights offer a balanced perspective on the pressure that comes with immense talent at a young age.
Commenting on Yamal's qualities, Onopko noted: "Often people say: 'Oh, what a talent!' about a player. He can shine in a few matches, impress in a tournament, and then disappear. There are many examples of this. This statement reflects the fickle nature of football careers, where promising young players sometimes struggle to maintain their form in the spotlight.
He stressed that maintaining a high level of performance not only for months, but for years is one of the most difficult aspects of a professional career. "For Yamal, there is no doubt that he has the talent to become a star. However, it is still too early to call him the next Messi or Ronaldo. In terms of talent, we could say that he is closer to Messi, but reaching that level requires a lot more work," he explained in his conversation with Oleg Lysenko of Championat.
Onopko’s remarks underscore a crucial reality in sports: Immense potential is only part of the equation. The path to greatness requires relentless dedication, resilience and a willingness to learn. While accolades and highlights may shine early in a player’s career, the journey after that first burst of talent is often fraught with pitfalls and setbacks.
As the final approaches, the football community is watching closely. Yamal's ability to handle the pressure of such an important match will be a vital test of both his character and his skills. The significance of this stage, combined with the high expectations surrounding him, could be a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career.
On the other hand, Onopko’s analysis of Yamal highlights broader themes regarding youth development in football. It raises important questions about mentoring, training environments and how best to support young athletes in the transition from promising talents to established stars. Clubs, coaches and families all play a crucial role in shaping these young players, ensuring that they are prepared not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally for the demands of professional football.
With the England game looming, Yamal has the opportunity to showcase his abilities on one of the biggest stages in European football. A good performance could further enhance his reputation, while a less-than-stellar performance could draw criticism. Whatever the outcome, his journey has only just begun and the footballing world will be watching his development closely.
In conclusion, Viktor Onopko’s words are both a cautionary tale and a source of encouragement for Lamine Yamal. While he possesses the raw ability to potentially become one of the greatest, the footsteps of legends like Messi and Ronaldo remind us that the path to greatness is a demanding one. As Yamal steps onto the pitch for the Euro 2024 final, he carries not only the hopes of his nation, but also the weight of expectation – a prospect that is both exciting and daunting for any young athlete. As the final whistle blows and the tournament comes to a close, fans will be eagerly awaiting to see how this young talent develops in the years to come, proving whether he can live up to and fulfil the potential that many see in him.
