Julian Nagelsmann says Spanish star Lamine Yamal is a “talented player”, but the Germany manager questioned whether the 16-year-old can cope when “things get tough”.
Yamal has been one of the standout players at Euro 2024 this summer, becoming just the third teenager to register multiple assists at the European Championship.
Hosts Germany and Spain in a blockbuster quarter-final on Friday, with La Roja the only side to win every game at the tournament so far.
The Germany boss said: “Let’s see how he reacts when things get tough.
“You can’t defend him completely. You have to be prepared for different things. My focus is less on [Lamine] Yamal, more on Jamal [Musiala]. We can do something in attack ourselves.”
German captain Ilkay Gundogan heaped praise on Barcelona team-mate Yamal’s breakthrough campaign but insists they will do everything they can to disrupt Luis de la Fuente’s side.
The midfielder added: “We want to ignite this atmosphere with the style and manner in which we play. That can push us – and perhaps make the Spaniards a bit less secure.”
Jamal Musiala is seriously impressed by Lamine Yamal ✨ pic.twitter.com/RnvKNhK6bi
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 4, 2024
De la Fuente: ‘A game fit for a final’
De La Fuente believes the blockbuster clash between the duo would be fit for the final, let alone the quarter-finals.
He said: “We will try to take the initiative and go all-out from the first minute, to minimise their strengths and exploit their weaknesses.
“It could have been the final of the European Championship, but I think it will be an even game on a footballing level.”
The 63-year-old pinpointed stifling veteran German midfielder Toni Kroos as the key to success, saying: “We thought about tying Kroos’ feet together, but I’m not sure if UEFA will let me.
“We know how Kroos behaves. We will try to make sure he doesn’t have the chance to receive the ball and will limit his passing options.”
