As the football world continues to buzz over the meteoric rise of Lamine Yamal, former Barcelona sporting director Ramon Planes has issued a measured but firm warning: "Let’s not rush greatness."

Following the 17-year-old’s historic season for both Barcelona and Spain, including a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph and four major trophies with Barça, the youngster is now being touted as a front-runner for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. But while fans are dreaming big, Planes is urging caution.

🔥 Yamal’s Season in Numbers:

18 goals & 25 assists in 55 appearances for Barça
Helped Spain win EURO 2024
Part of Barcelona’s LaLiga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa, and UEFA Super Cup victories
Youngest player ever promoted from La Masia to the senior team at just 15

🗣️ Ramon Planes Speaks Out:

“The hardest part is staying at the top level. We must protect him and avoid putting too much pressure on him,” Planes told Mundo Deportivo via Barça Universal.

“If he keeps this up for years, he could become a Ballon d’Or winner. But it’s still early days, and we need to be patient.”

💬 Opinion: Let Lamine Breathe — and Grow

Yamal’s brilliance is undeniable. From dazzling dribbles to game-changing assists, he’s not just playing — he’s dictating games at 17. But Planes is right: the football world has a dangerous habit of building child prodigies into icons before their foundation is even fully laid.

We’ve seen it before — where excessive hype can lead to burnout, entitlement, or emotional breakdowns. What Yamal needs right now is guidance, grounding, and space to grow — not the weight of premature expectations.

Winning the Ballon d'Or should be a destination, not a demand — especially at 17.

⚽ A Star Is Rising — But Let Him Rise at His Own Pace

Lamine Yamal is already a generational talent, but it’s the longevity, consistency, and maturity that will write his legacy — not just one electric season.

So yes, dream for him, vote for him, support him — but above all, protect him.

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#LamineYamal #BallonDorTalk #FutureOfFootball #BarcelonaStarBoy #SpainHero #LaMasiaPride #TeenageFootballStar #PatienceAndProtection #FootballWisdom #RamonPlanes

🗣️ Do you believe Lamine Yamal deserves the Ballon d'Or at 17? Or should football allow him to grow naturally without pressure? Let’s hear your thoughts below.