Former Barcelona and Real Madrid winger Luis Figo has expressed admiration for Lamine Yamal, joking that he might have needed to change positions if they had been teammates. Barca Universal reported on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, that the former Portugal international made the light-hearted remark while discussing the Barcelona youngster’s qualities and the challenge he presents to defenders.

Yamal, now 19, has become an influential figure in Barcelona’s attack. Operating mainly from the right flank, he uses close control, quick footwork and creativity to unsettle opponents. His ability to beat defenders in individual situations and create opportunities has made him a significant threat, attracting praise from respected figures across the game.

Figo, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2000, was asked to consider how he and Yamal might have fitted into the same team. Their preferred positions could have created a selection dilemma, but the former winger responded with humour, suggesting he would have moved to the opposite side.

“If we had played together, maybe I would have had to play on the left and switch positions,” Figo said, according to SPORT.

Beyond the joke, the Portuguese great discussed the difficulty of containing an attacker with Yamal’s movement and technical ability. He argued that the defensive approach used in modern football makes strict individual marking across the entire pitch less common than it once was.

Figo explained that defenders increasingly work within assigned areas, concentrating on opponents who enter their zones rather than following one player wherever he moves. In Yamal’s case, that responsibility would often fall to the opposition’s left-back, given the teenager’s position on Barcelona’s right wing.

“I think you see less and less man-to-man marking on the field these days. Logically, you mark the player who most often comes into your zone, in this case, the left back,” he explained. “Trying to mark him man-to-man all over the field would be crazy,” Figo added.

Figo also reflected on the qualities that defined his own career as one of the leading right-sided attackers of his generation. The former Portugal captain recalled his technical ability, strength and acceleration, attributes that helped him compete against defenders and make a difference in one-on-one situations.

During his career, Figo was renowned for using close control, dribbling and changes of pace to create openings. His experience gives added weight to his assessment of the demands involved in defending against an exceptional wide player.

The comparison was not presented as a direct assessment of who was superior, but Figo’s remarks conveyed clear respect for Yamal’s talent. The teenager continues to develop his reputation at Barcelona, where his creativity and confidence have made him a central part of the attacking game.

Praise from a former Ballon d’Or winner further reflects the recognition Yamal is receiving beyond his current club. As he gains experience, opponents will continue searching for effective ways to limit his influence, while Barcelona will look to maximise the qualities that make him such a difficult player to contain. His progress remains closely watched by supporters and football observers alike.