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Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has lavished praise on Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal following the teenager’s dazzling performance in the UEFA Champions League semi-final clash against Inter Milan.
Yamal, just 17 years old, was the standout performer in Barcelona’s thrilling 3-3 draw with Inter at Montjuic on Wednesday night. The La Masia graduate sparked a comeback after scoring with a stunning solo goal, struck the woodwork twice, and tormented the Italian side’s defence throughout a pulsating encounter.
Saka, speaking to Sky Sports, was full of admiration for the young Spaniard. “Lamine Yamal? He is unreal. In my life, I have never seen this level of football from a 17-year-old. What can we say about what he does…” the England international remarked.
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The praise comes amid a growing wave of admiration for Yamal, who has enjoyed an impressive campaign for Barcelona. With 15 goals and 24 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions, he has become a central figure in the Catalan club’s pursuit of a historic treble.
“It’s a dream” 🙏
Bukayo Saka discusses his personal goals, which include winning the Ballon d’Or 🏆 pic.twitter.com/smhImdQf1n
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2025
Wednesday’s semi-final marked Yamal’s 100th appearance for the Barcelona first team, and his goal etched his name into the history books as the youngest player to score in a Champions League semi-final.
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Yamal’s meteoric rise has led many to speculate about his future, with suggestions he could become the youngest-ever Ballon d’Or winner if he maintains his current trajectory.
With Barcelona and Arsenal both still in contention, a tantalising Champions League final showdown between Saka and Yamal remains a possibility. However, both clubs must navigate challenging second-leg fixtures away from home to book their place in the final.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is expected to welcome back midfielder Thomas Partey, providing a timely boost, and could benefit from the absence of several key PSG players. Ousmane Dembele, who picked up an injury at the Emirates, has been left out of the PSG squad for their Ligue 1 clash with Strasbourg, alongside Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, and Marquinhos.
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