Cristiano Ronaldo is set to face Lamine Yamal and Spain on Monday at World Cup 2026 and was asked about the Barcelona youngster ahead of the game.
The Portugal veteran was asked for his thoughts on Yamal and offered up the following response at the press conference.
“Lamine is a player with a very bright future. I didn’t see any of Spain’s matches, I only saw a bit of the game against Cape Verde, but as I said, he has a very bright future,” he told reporters.
“But I see Spain as a whole. They’re very
good, they play very well, and it will be very tough.
Ronaldo was also asked about recent comments from Yamal about how he handles criticism and understands not all fans will like him.
“I think the more prepared you are, the better you’ll survive a long football career. If you succumb to criticism, you’re finished. It’s normal; it’s your job. Some criticism is constructive, and other criticism is just to tear you apart,” he added.
“I understand; it’s part of how the press sells the news. In your case, you have to get used to it if you want a long career. You have to focus on those who care about you. I learned that over the years. Difficult times will come, obviously; there will certainly be days when you don’t feel like working, and that’s normal. It’s part of our job.”
Spain and Portugal meet in Dallas on Monday in what will be a repeat of last year’s Nations League final which Roberto Martinez’s side won on penalties.
