Spain’s forward, Lamine Yamal, was awarded the Young Player of the Year after his team’s 2-1 victory against England in the Euro 2024 final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany, on Sunday.
The Barcelona winger showcased his talent throughout the European Championship, contributing four assists—more than any other player—and scoring a crucial goal against France in the semifinals. This goal made him the youngest player to score in the semifinal of a major men’s tournament.
“This is the best birthday present I could have; it’s a dream,” said Lamine Yamal after winning his first European Championship early in his career.
At 17 years and one day old, Lamine Yamal became the youngest player to participate in a men’s World Cup, European Championship, or Copa América final. He played in every game for Spain in the tournament, with La Roja securing a 2-1 victory over England in the final.
Lamine Yamal assisted Nico Williams in scoring the first goal and exemplified Spain’s strong youth development, having emerged from Barcelona’s renowned youth academy, La Masia.
Coach Luis de la Fuente called up Lamine Yamal for his first senior international match on September 1, 2023, at just 16 years and 50 days old, for the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers against Georgia and Cyprus. Lamine made his senior debut against Georgia seven days later and scored in the 74th minute, contributing to a 7-1 victory.
