‘We didn’t see the best of Yamal’: Lewandowski reflects on young star’s World Cup performance

Robert Lewandowski has praised Lamine Yamal’s contribution to Spain’s FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph, admitting that the teenage star was not at his best during the tournament because of an injury setback.

Yamal arrived at the World Cup carrying a hamstring injury that had ruled him out for parts of Barcelona’s LaLiga-winning campaign. The setback affected his early involvement for Spain, with head coach Luis De la Fuente carefully managing his minutes in the opening matches.

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Despite the limitations, the 19-year-old winger played eight games for Spain during the tournament, scoring once in 616 minutes. He also recorded the highest number of successful dribbles in the competition, completing 35, as he remained a constant attacking threat from the right flank.

Spain overcame strong opponents, defeating Portugal in the round of 16 and France in the semifinals before beating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in the final to lift the trophy.

However, Lewandowski believes fans did not see the best version of Yamal in the tournament.

“Honestly, no, we didn’t see his best this tournament. The best Lamine for me was two seasons ago -- that was the best version of Lamine Yamal,” Lewandowski told ESPN.

“He came to the World Cup after injury and he didn’t play for around eight weeks. It’s tough when you don’t play for that long and then have to start playing in the World Cup. You don’t have enough time to train; you just go from game to game.”

The Polish striker, however, praised Yamal’s mentality and his impact on Spain’s success.

“But he showed really good quality. The Spain players and the team helped Lamine, and Lamine also helped the whole team. I think this cooperation was perfect,” he added.

Lewandowski and Yamal shared the pitch 127 times for Barcelona across all competitions before the veteran forward left the club at the end of last season.

Although Poland failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Lewandowski revealed that his close relationship with several Spanish players influenced his support for La Roja in the final against Argentina.

“I know a lot of players from Spain and I spent so much time in Barcelona with them, so I supported them a lot,” he said.

“Of course, I know only Leo personally from Argentina, but I know he won the last World Cup. That’s why I supported the Spanish national team because when you play with them and spend so much time together, it is easier to support them.”

Lewandowski highlighted Spain’s young squad and backed them to enjoy a successful future.

“I was happy because I know they were ready to win the World Cup. They are very young and the future is in front of them,” he said.

After leaving Barcelona, Lewandowski joined Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire FC on a two-year contract as a free agent on June 29.

The 37-year-old striker made his MLS debut on Wednesday night against Inter Miami CF at Nu Stadium in Miami, where Chicago suffered a 3-2 defeat after conceding a late goal.