Real Madrid legend, Toni Kroos has never been afraid to share his thoughts in the media, whether during his playing career or since retiring.

The German midfielder’s strongest trait has always been his ability to call a spade a spade, and he has now waxed lyrical about Barcelona star Lamine Yamal’s performance against Atletico Madrid.

Atletico lost 2-1 to Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, missing out on the chance to lead La Liga.

Kroos Impressed By Yamal’s Performance

Speaking on his podcast Einfach mal Luppen, the German was astounded by what the Spanish teenager produced that night.

“Lamine Yamal’s first 25 minutes were absolutely exceptional,” Kroos said, emphasizing the teenager’s immense effect in the early stages.

The former Madrid midfielder was particularly impressed by Yamal’s ability to create opportunities without relying on his teammates to create big chances.

“Every dangerous Barcelona attack seemed to come through him,” he said.

“He was creating those advantages himself, beating opponents and producing chances through his own individual brilliance.”

Kroos believed Yamal’s confidence was so strong that the teenager appeared capable of bearing all responsibility for Barça’s comeback.

“At one point, you could practically picture him asking his teammates, ‘Just give me the ball. “We’ll turn the game around,” he continued.

Rare Compliment From Real Madrid Legend

While there is no doubt that Lamine Yamal is an exceptional footballer, it is unusual for someone linked with Real Madrid to express such enthusiasm for a Barcelona player.

Even when they share affection, modern sportsmen are increasingly media-trained to keep it private.

However, Kroos has never been that type of person, and his admiration for the 19-year-old Barcelona winger appears genuine.

Kroos understands better than others what kind of mindset it takes to pull off comebacks in big games.

Barcelona never let their heads down against Atletico, thanks in large part to Yamal’s resolve on the field.

The numbers may only show that he assisted Fermin’s goal in the second half, but his performance was much more than that.

Real Madrid has progressively found Lamine to be one of their most difficult opponents in El Clasico, and it remains to be seen how the Barcelona teenager’s development plays out.