Barcelona may have seen several promising talents come and go over the years, but when someone who once wore the famous Blaugrana shirt compares a rising star to Neymar, fans sit up and listen.
Former midfielder Unai Hernandez, now at Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad, has spoken candidly about Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal.
Yamal has already captured the attention of the footballing world with his dazzling footwork and natural flair, but Unai believes there is something even more special about the 18-year-old.
In an interview with MARKwhere he discussed his career choices and memories of his time at Barça, the former midfielder didn’t hold back in his admiration for Yamal.
“He embodies a new generation in football. He’s very similar to Neymar, especially in one-on-one situations, as he’s extremely dangerous.
“He also finishes attacks in a brilliant way. He enjoys playing football, and that’s the most important thing, which also makes the fans enjoy watching him.”
Barça DNA and a career abroad
Though his affection for the club is clear, Hernandez has chosen a different path. Now playing in Saudi Arabia, the midfielder is carving out his own story, away from the Camp Nou spotlight but firmly rooted in the teachings of La Masia.
When asked about his favourite player, his answer confirmed just how deeply Barcelona runs in his blood.
“Iniesta. Being a Barcelona fan since I was young, I always followed him closely, as well as Xavi, Busquets, and Messi, of course, in addition to the players who play in my same position.”
And when the time came to make a tough decision about his future, Hernandez didn’t hesitate.
“I think I needed to take a new step in my career because I was playing with Barcelona’s reserve team, and I had a feeling that the first team might not need me.
“I had to look for a way out, and that’s what happened. When Al-Ittihad’s offer came, I didn’t hesitate for a moment. I made a good decision, and I’m now very happy with it.”
No bitterness, Just perspective
Despite leaving the club while some of his peers rose to prominence, Hernandez harbours no jealousy. Instead, he views their success with pride and sees it as part of football’s unpredictable journey.
“I’m really happy for them. They’re teammates I shared the locker room with. For example: Lamine, Cubarsi, Casado, Bernal, Gerard Martin… these are players I spent a long time with on the team.
“They got the chance to play and be important with the first team. As for people like me, we had to look for another path, and as I always say, football doesn’t end at Barcelona.”
Furthermore, when asked if returning to the Catalan side is a dream or even an obsession, Unai’s answer once again reflected a level-headed approach.
“No, it’s not an obsession. I know everything has its time. I’m in my twenties, and nowadays players’ careers extend until 35 or 40 years old. There’s always time to return.”
Lastly, when asked which player he would like to bring with him to Al-Ittihad from La Masia, he concluded, “Toni Fernandez. ”
