Yamal Calls Football a Force for Unity Ahead of France Clash

Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has delivered a strong message of unity ahead of the FIFA World Cup semi-final against France, insisting that football should bring people together rather than divide them.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the 19-year-old winger was asked about controversial remarks made by former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, who recently claimed that although France are an outstanding team, they have "no French players."

Rather than fuelling the debate, Yamal responded with a call for inclusion.

"Tomorrow we'll play a great match. But if football has one purpose, it is to unite people," he said.

The Barcelona star, whose father is Moroccan and mother is from Equatorial Guinea, added that both Spain and France represent multicultural societies.

"France and Spain are both examples of integrated societies. Football is all about bringing people together. There's no need to focus on what someone else has said."

Yamal also displayed remarkable maturity despite celebrating his 19th birthday on the eve of one of the biggest matches of his career.

The press conference also touched on his three-year-old brother, Keyne, who has become a fan favourite after appearing playfully in television broadcasts during the tournament.

"My brother doesn't really understand what's happening. He behaves in front of the cameras just as he does at home. I'm happy people enjoy watching him. It's fun to see him on TV," Yamal said with a smile.

To mark his birthday, Yamal arrived at the press conference wearing an expensive diamond necklace, describing it as a birthday gift to himself.

Despite the celebrations, the young forward said his full attention remains on the semi-final, which he described as the biggest match of his career.

Yamal has scored just once in the tournament so far but insisted he is not concerned by his goal tally.

"Every tournament is different. I'm not worried because I've only scored one goal. We're winning, and that's what matters. I've experienced World Cups where Spain were eliminated much earlier. That hasn't happened this time. Hopefully, we'll play more matches and the goals will come."

Looking ahead to the clash with France, Yamal expects a thrilling contest.

"It's going to be a fantastic match, one that everyone has been waiting for. Both teams will attack and defend well. I'm sure it will be a very evenly contested game," he said.

MMR