Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal: What Chelsea icon Mikel Obi said about Spain's Euro 2024 heroes
Nigerian football legend John Obi Mikel has heaped praise on Spanish wonderkids Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams following their starring roles in La Roja's historic Euro 2024 victory.
Mikel, the former Super Eagles captain, has weighed in on the performances of the duo, who were instrumental in leading Spain to a record fourth European Championship title in Germany last summer.
Mikel Obi praises Lamine Yamal & Nico Williams
Yamal, who was just 16 years old when the tournament began before turning 17 during the competition, and Williams were in simply sensational form as Spain swept to glory, winning all seven of their matches.
The African-born pair proved too hot to handle in the final, combining for the opening goal scored by Williams en route to a hard-fought 2-1 win against England - a result that ultimately led to Gareth Southgate's resignation.
Yamal, the Barcelona prodigy, scored one goal and provided four assists, including the crucial pass for Williams' strike against the Three Lions in the showpiece.
His scintillating performances saw him crowned the Young Player of the Euro 2024 tournament.
Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao forward Williams, with his two goals and one assist, has seen his stock skyrocket, with Catalan giants FC Barcelona leading the race for his signature ahead of next season.
And Mikel, who enjoyed a glittering career with Chelsea and Nigeria, was unequivocal in his praise for the young Spanish duo.
'Of course, we have to talk about the 16-year-old who turned 17 in the tournament, absolutely fantastic,' Mikel stated.
'Also, (Nico) Williams as well. I think they were complete,' the Nigerian legend added.
Spain's victory at Euro 2024 was thoroughly deserved, with Yamal and Williams shining brightly throughout the tournament.
Their exploits have underlined Spain's status as the dominant force in European football, and the future certainly looks bright for Luis de la Fuente's exciting young team.
As for Mikel, who also reserved more glowing words for another Spaniard, Rodri Hernandez, his glowing assessment of the Spanish starlets adds another layer to the showers of praise that have come their way for their immense talent and potential.
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