Barcelona’s Prodigy Lamine Yamal Reveals His Favorite Premier League Player — and It’s Not Who You’d Expect
Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has once again made headlines — not for his dazzling footwork or record-breaking milestones, but for an unexpected admission about the player he most admires in world football.
In a post-match interview with El Mundo Deportivo, the 17-year-old winger surprised reporters by naming Manchester United’s Bryan Mbeumo as his favorite Premier League player to watch — calling the Cameroonian forward “a rare breed in modern football.”
“I’ve played with and against top players — Raphinha, Nico Williams, Dembélé — all incredible talents,” Yamal explained.
“But Mbeumo… there’s something different about him. His decision-making, his confidence, his ability to create something from nothing — it’s inspiring. I love how calm he stays in big games. He reminds me that football is about intelligence, not just flair.”
“He Plays With His Head, Not Just His Feet” — Yamal on Mbeumo’s Brilliance
Yamal’s admiration stood out as a sign of his maturity — a young player valuing football intelligence over flash. He expanded on what draws him to Mbeumo’s style:
“He plays with his head, not just his feet,” Yamal said. “The way he finds space, links up with teammates, even defends — it’s top level. You can tell he understands football differently. That’s something I want to learn.”
Since joining Manchester United under Rúben Amorim, Mbeumo has flourished. His tactical discipline, creativity, and tireless work rate have made him integral to United’s new-look attack — and now, even Barcelona’s brightest prospect has taken notice.
Cole Palmer Echoed the Same Sentiment
Interestingly, Yamal isn’t alone in his praise. Earlier this season, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer also described Mbeumo as “criminally underrated,” telling Sky Sports:
“I’ve faced him a few times — he’s sharp, strong, unpredictable. If he’d joined a bigger club earlier, people would already call him world-class.”
Now shining at Old Trafford, Mbeumo’s influence clearly stretches beyond the Premier League’s borders.
From Brentford to Old Trafford — Mbeumo’s Rise
Mbeumo’s journey has been anything but straightforward. From helping Brentford establish themselves in the top flight to earning a high-profile move to Manchester United, his rise reflects patience, adaptability, and belief. Under Amorim, he’s evolved into a complete forward, capable of operating across the front line. His standout performances against the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal have earned rave reviews, with Rio Ferdinand labeling him “a coach’s dream — disciplined, efficient, always switched on.”
A Shift in Football’s New Generation
Yamal’s praise reveals more than personal admiration — it reflects a generational change. Instead of idolizing only global icons like Mbappé or Haaland, young stars are now studying players who combine consistency, intelligence, and tactical awareness.
Spanish journalist Juan Mataz noted the stylistic similarity between Yamal and Mbeumo:
“Yamal sees in Mbeumo the kind of player he wants to become — smart, efficient, and dangerous in every moment. It’s not about fame; it’s about football IQ.”
Fans React — “Even Barcelona Knows He’s Special”
Social media erupted as Yamal’s comments spread, with fans from both England and Spain weighing in.
Manchester United fans celebrated the recognition:
“Even Barcelona’s golden boy rates Mbeumo. Amorim knew what he was doing!”
Liverpool supporters, of course, found humor in it:
“Of course he loves Mbeumo — he’s the reason we lost at Anfield!”
And Barcelona fans praised Yamal’s maturity:
“This kid doesn’t just play football — he studies it. That’s why he’s special.”
Mbeumo Responds with Class
When asked about Yamal’s words after training, Mbeumo replied humbly:
“Wow, that means a lot coming from a talent like him. I’ve watched Yamal too — fearless, creative, with that Barcelona DNA. Football’s about learning from each other, and I’m honored he appreciates my game.”
Mutual Respect Across Generations
In a sport often fueled by rivalry and ego, the respect between Yamal and Mbeumo stands out. It’s a reminder that greatness isn’t defined by headlines or hype, but by intelligence, consistency, and humility.
As Manchester United prepare for their next challenge, one thing is clear — Bryan Mbeumo’s influence now extends far beyond Old Trafford.
