Portuguese super agent Jorge Mendes has shared his thoughts on the growing attention surrounding Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. The young star has been a hot topic on social media recently, mainly due to his off-field antics.

Despite his undeniable talent on the pitch, Yamal has come under intense scrutiny for his behavior off the pitch. His latest controversy involved remarks directed towards Barcelona’s archrivals, Real Madrid. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the young winger’s personal life, particularly prior to his breakup with Argentine rapper Nicki Nicole.

Amid the controversy, reports emerged last month that Barcelona held a meeting with Jorge Mendes, who has managed Yamal’s footballing future since 2023. The meeting was reportedly organized by sporting director Deco, following some internal concerns at the club about how Yamal’s affairs were being handled.

According to Catalunya Radio, the meeting lasted a couple of hours and revolved mainly around Yamal’s lifestyle. Deco and Mendes reached a consensus that monitoring Yamal’s activities off the pitch would be beneficial. Mendes agreed to continue advising the La Masia graduate on making the right decisions both on and off the field.

“He has been a victim of his youth,” Mendes remarked, addressing the challenges Yamal faces as a young athlete in the spotlight.

### Rising Star: Yamal’s Stellar Football Journey

Lamine Yamal was promoted to Barcelona’s senior team in 2023 but truly burst onto the scene in 2024 after leading Spain to victory in the Euros. His impressive performances earned him recognition as one of the top 30 Ballon d’Or nominees.

Although he finished eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings—an award ultimately won by Manchester City’s Rodri—Yamal’s impact was undeniable. During the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, Mendes claimed that Yamal was the best player of the year but was overlooked due to his young age.

“Lamine Yamal has been the best, but he has also been a victim of his youth because many people who vote have thought that he is 17 years old and will have time to win these awards,” Mendes explained.

Following another series of outstanding displays, Yamal earned another Ballon d’Or nomination in 2025. This time, he climbed higher in the rankings, finishing second behind winner Ousmane Dembele.

As Yamal continues to mature both on and off the field, the football world watches closely to see how this promising talent will shape his future.
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