Vinicius Jr has delivered remarkable praise for Lamine Yamal, declaring the Barcelona winger capable of winning the World Cup single-handedly for Spain. Speaking to Caze TV, the Real Madrid superstar put aside the fierce El Clásico rivalry to recognise the Spanish sensation's extraordinary talent on the global stage.
"Spain have Lamine Yamal, who is one of the best players in the world," Vinicius said. "He does incredible things on the pitch. He is a player who can win the World Cup single-handedly. He is one of those players you pay to watch play." The endorsement carries weight coming from a rival club's talisman, highlighting Yamal's impact across La Liga and Europe.
Yamal's Remarkable Rise
Yamal's credentials back up Vinicius's assessment. The teenage prodigy finished second in the 2025 Ballon d'Or rankings and has compiled staggering statistics across 151 Barcelona appearances: 49 goals and 52 assists. His current season output stands at 24 goals and 18 assists in 45 matches across all competitions, cementing his status as one of football's most dynamic young attackers.
The winger already boasts three La Liga titles and a 2024 European Championship medal with Spain, where he has scored six times in 25 caps since making his debut in September 2023. He is currently recovering from an injury setback to ensure peak fitness for the World Cup campaign this summer.
World Cup Preparation for Both Nations
Both players are now focused on preparing their countries for the tournament. Spain face Iraq and Peru in warm-up matches before their Group H opener against Cape Verde on June 15, followed by clashes with Saudi Arabia and Uruguay. Brazil, meanwhile, have scheduled friendlies against Panama and Egypt before their Group C campaign begins against Morocco on June 13, with Haiti and Scotland completing their group stage schedule.
Vinicius brings his own proven pedigree to Brazil's campaign, having won the 2024 FIFA Best Men's Player award and contributed 128 goals and 100 assists across 375 Real Madrid appearances. With two Champions League winners' medals and three league titles, the winger will lead Brazil's attacking ambitions as both nations target a deep World Cup run.
