We Are Not Afraid Of Yamal, He Is One Of The Best Players In The World, We Can’t Deny That –Vitinha

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha has dismissed suggestions that his side are intimidated by Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, while acknowledging the teenager’s outstanding talent and growing influence in European football.

The Portuguese international expressed admiration for Yamal’s abilities ahead of the meeting between the two European giants, describing the young forward as an exceptional player. However, he maintained that PSG have no reason to fear the Barcelona star, insisting that respect for his quality should not be confused with intimidation.

Vitinha praised Yamal’s performances and recognised the qualities that have made him one of Barcelona’s most important attacking players. The teenager has gained recognition for his creativity, dribbling skills and ability to influence matches from the right flank, regularly creating opportunities and troubling opposing defenders.

“Afraid? No, we are not afraid! He is one of the best players in the world, we can’t deny that. What he does is incredible. He is an exceptional player! I know he’s special, that he’s truly different,” Vitinha said.

His comments highlight the level of respect Yamal commands among opponents, with the Barcelona winger increasingly regarded as a player capable of changing the course of major matches. Despite his age, he has established himself as a significant figure in the club’s attacking plans, attracting attention for his performances against strong opposition.

Nevertheless, Vitinha cautioned against allowing the focus on Yamal to overshadow Barcelona’s wider strengths. He argued that the Catalan club possess quality across their squad and should therefore be assessed as a complete team rather than as a side dependent on one individual.

“But when you look at Barcelona’s team, it’s unfair to only talk about Lamine Yamal! I would say that, first and foremost, we are facing a great team,” he added.

The midfielder’s assessment suggests that PSG are preparing for a demanding contest in which Barcelona’s collective quality could prove just as important as the contributions of their leading players. While Yamal’s pace, technique and creativity may present a particular challenge, the French champions must also account for the other attacking options and tactical threats available to their opponents.

Vitinha’s remarks also reflect the approach PSG will need to adopt if they are to manage the challenge effectively. Concentrating too heavily on one player could leave opportunities for other Barcelona stars to influence the game, making a balanced defensive performance essential.

The comments have added to the anticipation surrounding the encounter, with both clubs expected to rely on their overall strength and individual match-winners. Although Yamal is likely to attract considerable attention, Vitinha has made it clear that PSG view Barcelona as a formidable opponent whose threat extends well beyond the young Spanish international.

For PSG, the task will be to recognise Yamal’s exceptional ability without allowing him to dominate their preparations. Vitinha’s message is clear: admiration for the Barcelona winger will not translate into fear, and the challenge must be approached with equal attention to the entire team.