Benfica legend backs Barcelona rising star for future Ballon d’Or – ‘For sure’

Just a few hours remain before Barcelona’s clash against Benfica kicks off at Estadio da Luz, and one can expect a thriller to ensue.

The Catalans have not beaten them in their last two games in Europe and will be looking to set scores right. Benfica, meanwhile, will hope to take three critical points in their pursuit of a top-8 spot.

Hansi Flick and Co. will be without Dani Olmo on the night as the midfielder suffered a mild muscular niggle. Nevertheless, they will be determined to win and return to their good spell of momentum after the hiccup against Getafe.

Benfica legend speaks out

Speaking to the media ahead of the big European clash later today, Benfica legend Paulo Madeira gave his two cents on Barcelona, their young talent and their chances at Estadio de Luz.

He began by praising Hansi Flick’s team for their quality and talent across the field.

“I’m following them. The results they have obtained recently, beating Madrid with those numbers are not achieved every day. Against a Real Madrid with players from another planet.”

He then spoke on the young talent blossoming in Catalonia and had very high praise for Lamine Yamal.

“Barcelona has some youngsters with a lot of potential. Lamine for me in the next few years will be Ballon d’Or, for sure. He has a quality far above normal.”

The legend was then asked what Barcelona’s biggest threats against Benfica would be, to which he said,

“Barça has its weapons, especially from the midfield and above. Players who can decide in a second.”

He then pointed out Barcelona captain Raphinha as a decisive player who could take the game by its scruff.

“Raphinha, for example, is a guy who has incredible speed. Great player.”

Finally, he revealed what he thought would unfold later tonight in Portugal, both from an atmosphere point of view and a prediction aspect.

“I think it will be a great game, really. Due to the conditions, with the rain that is falling, the game can be faster than normal.”

“As they beat us in 1991 by 2-1 at the Camp Nou, I think this time we will return it. 2-1 for Benfica,” he concluded.

Source: SPORT