Andres Iniesta has expressed his confidence that Lamine Yamal can inspire Spain to secure their second World Cup title, even as the young star continues to struggle with injury issues. The Spanish legend also lauded the exceptional performances of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, both of whom currently top the scoring charts. Spain have advanced to face Austria, while France have already booked their place in the last 16 of what has been an unpredictable tournament so far.

Iniesta emphasises Yamal’s vital influence

Speaking during the presentation of the NSN Cycling Team in Barcelona, Iniesta shared his insights with Mundo Deportivo regarding Spain’s campaign. He underlined the importance of Yamal, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph but has faced fitness challenges during this World Cup. Yamal featured for 19 minutes against Cape Verde, 45 minutes against Saudi Arabia, and 76 minutes against Uruguay, managing to score one goal. Spain topped their group and earned a round of 32 encounter with Austria.

“Lamine Yamal is a very important player for the national team, and the future of this team will depend greatly on how much of an impact he can make in matches,” Iniesta said, cautioning that “these tournaments are extremely demanding, and even the smallest details can prove costly.”

Messi and Mbappe continue to shine

While Iniesta remains hopeful about Spain’s prospects, he also acknowledged the brilliance of the tournament’s standout performers. When asked to name the players who have impressed him the most, he pointed to two familiar faces who currently share the top scorer position. “So far, especially Leo Messi and Kylian Mbappe, who have both scored six goals,” Iniesta observed.

Mbappe and France have already secured their passage to the next stage after a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden in the round of 32. Meanwhile, Messi and Argentina are preparing for their own knockout clash against Cape Verde.

Iniesta also commented on the unpredictable nature of this World Cup, which has seen several major European teams eliminated earlier than expected. “We have witnessed the usual surprises of prominent national teams being knocked out, such as Germany and the Netherlands,” he noted.

Spain remain Iniesta’s favourites

Despite the premature exits of several European powerhouses, Iniesta continues to back the Spanish squad assembled by Luis de la Fuente. As Spain gear up for their crucial clash against Austria, the team will hope Yamal can recover full fitness and reproduce the decisive form he displayed during Euro 2024.

“Spain, for me, is one of the favourites — because of the players, and because of the feeling they give me. I remain very optimistic and hope we can win that second star,” Iniesta explained.

What lies ahead for Iniesta and Spain?

Spain’s immediate focus will be on overcoming Austria in the round of 32. Meanwhile, Iniesta continues his early steps into management. When asked about the possibility of coaching Barcelona or the Spanish national team in the future, he responded with humility and restraint. “I understand that my name will always be associated with those positions, but right now, it’s something I approach with a lot of respect because I have just started. It’s still a long way off before I can answer those kinds of questions,” he concluded.