FIFA World Cup 2026: Mario Kempes says Lamine Yamal must shine at WC to earn superstar status

Madrid [Spain], June 29 (ANI): Spain sensation Lamine Yamal has been warned that, despite his meteoric rise at Barcelona, he still has plenty to prove on the international stage.
Argentina legend Mario Kempes has challenged the teenage winger to replicate his club performances at the FIFA World Cup if he wants to establish himself as one of football's true superstars.
While the footballing world has been captivated by the emergence of the 18-year-old winger, Kempes has urged caution, insisting that success on the international stage is the ultimate measure of greatness.
The 1978 FIFA World Cup winner believes the scrutiny and pressure of the World Cup far exceed those of La Liga, arguing that true legendary status is earned only by players who can inspire their country on football's biggest stage.
Speaking to the media about Yamal's impact, Kempes said as per Goal.com, "He needs to prove that [he is a superstar]. In Barcelona, we've all seen it already, but let's see it in the World Cup. That's where the value of the big players shows." The former Argentina star is adamant that the knockout pressures of international tournaments separate the good players from the greats."
Kempes further highlighted the contrast between playing for a well-drilled club side like Barcelona and representing a national team.
He argued that the familiarity and structure of club football can often conceal a player's shortcomings, whereas the unique pressures and demands of a month-long tournament like the FIFA World Cup quickly expose any weaknesses.
"The World Cup isn't like playing with the team, as many who played in Barcelona did. We know Barcelona players on the international level through the Champions League, but this is the World Cup. Despite these challenges, Austria boss Ralf Rangnick recently claimed the winger could reach a level similar to that of Messi if he manages to stay fit and grounded," Kempes added. (ANI)