Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has opened up about the close bond he has developed with veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, offering a glimpse into the camaraderie that fuels the club’s success. The 17-year-old winger, who has taken La Liga by storm with his dazzling performances, shared insights into how his relationship with the 36-year-old Polish star has evolved from a tentative start to a genuine friendship both on and off the pitch.
Yamal, who made his senior debut for Barcelona at just 15, admitted that his early days in the first team were daunting, particularly when interacting with a global icon like Lewandowski. In a recent interview, he reflected on their initial dynamic, noting that two years ago, as a youth player, he felt the weight of Lewandowski’s presence. “When I first came up, I was just a kid from the academy,” Yamal said with a laugh. “If I didn’t pass him the ball, he’d give me those looks!” Those early moments of tension have since given way to mutual respect and a strong connection, forged through countless training sessions and matches together. “Now it’s really good,” Yamal added. “We’re always together, training, playing, even spending time outside of football during the holidays.”
Lewandowski, a former Bayern Munich star and one of the world’s most prolific goalscorers, has been equally complimentary about the young prodigy. In a discussion with Mundo Deportivo, he praised Yamal’s maturity and rapid growth, describing him as an “amazing talent” who has already established himself as a key figure at Barcelona despite his youth. “Imagine being 16 and already playing for a club like Barcelona,” Lewandowski remarked. “I always try to help him, and I think we’ve built a great connection.” This mentorship has been pivotal for Yamal, who credits Lewandowski’s guidance for helping him navigate the pressures of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs.
The duo’s chemistry is evident on the field, where they have formed part of a formidable attacking trio alongside Raphinha. Together, they have powered Barcelona to a domestic treble in the 2024-25 season, with Yamal contributing 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 appearances, and Lewandowski netting an impressive 42 goals across all competitions. Their synergy was on full display in a recent 3-0 victory over Athletic Club, where Lewandowski scored twice, and Yamal’s flair on the wing created constant problems for the opposition.
Off the pitch, their friendship has grown through shared moments away from the spotlight. Yamal revealed that the pair often spend time together during breaks, a testament to the respect Lewandowski commands within the squad. “Robert has the respect of everyone,” Yamal said, highlighting the veteran’s role as a leader. This bond has also helped Yamal settle into the high-stakes environment of Barcelona, where expectations are immense for a player seen as the club’s future star.