FIFA World Cup 2026: Mario Kempes says Lamine Yamal must shine at WC to earn superstar status
Madrid, June 29
Spain sensation Lamine Yamal has been warned that, despite his meteoric rise at Barcelona, he still has plenty to prove on the international stage.
Argentina legend Mario Kempes has challenged the teenage winger to replicate his club performances at the FIFA World Cup if he wants to establish himself as one of football's true superstars.
While the footballing world has been captivated by the emergence of the 18-year-old winger, Kempes has urged caution, insisting that success on the international stage is the ultimate measure of greatness.
The 1978 FIFA World Cup winner believes the scrutiny and pressure of the World Cup far exceed those of La Liga, arguing that true legendary status is earned only by players who can inspire their country on football's biggest stage.
Speaking to the media about Yamal's impact, Kempes said as per Goal.com, "He needs to prove that [he is a superstar]. In Barcelona, we've all seen it already, but let's see it in the World Cup. That's where the value of the big players shows." The former Argentina star is adamant that the knockout pressures of international tournaments separate the good players from the greats."
Kempes further highlighted the contrast between playing for a well-drilled club side like Barcelona and representing a national team.
He argued that the familiarity and structure of club football can often conceal a player's shortcomings, whereas the unique pressures and demands of a month-long tournament like the FIFA World Cup quickly expose any weaknesses.
"The World Cup isn't like playing with the team, as many who played in Barcelona did. We know Barcelona players on the international level through the Champions League, but this is the World Cup. Despite these challenges, Austria boss Ralf Rangnick recently claimed the winger could reach a level similar to that of Messi if he manages to stay fit and grounded," Kempes added.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, I agree with Kempes. So many players get hyped up after a good season in La Liga or the Premier League, but can they handle the World Cup? Yamal is special, no doubt, but let's not crown him yet. India knows a thing or two about hype not matching reality in sports. 😅
Kempes is right that the World Cup is the ultimate test, but I think Yamal has already shown he can handle big moments. Remember his performances in the Euros? He's got the mentality. Still, a World Cup is a different animal. Let's see if he can deliver consistently over a month-long tournament. 🇪🇸
I'm not sure I fully agree with Kempes here. The World Cup is important, but it's also just a tournament every four years. Greatness can be shown in many ways—consistency in club football, Champions League performances, etc. Yamal is already a superstar in the making. Let the kid play. 🎯
As an Indian football fan, I find this debate fascinating. In India, we often see our players shine in domestic leagues but struggle internationally. Kempes has a point—the World Cup is where legends are truly made. Yamal has the potential, but let's not get carried away. Time will tell. 🇮🇳
Respectfully, I think Kempes is being a bit harsh. The World Cup is a team effort, and Spain's squad isn't as strong as Barcelona's. Yamal can only do so much. That said, if he performs well in the World Cup,
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