Since we're constantly debating where our national focus and investments should truly lie, let's pivot for a moment to a different kind of investment – raw, undeniable talent. I'm talking about Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old phenom who just stamped his authority all over this season's UEFA Champions League, even if Barcelona didn't go all the way.
This young man broke records, becoming the youngest player ever to bag 20 goal contributions in the Champions League, hitting 11 goals and 9 assists before his 19th birthday. He also surpassed Erling Haaland's record for most goal contributions in a single UCL campaign with 6 goals and 4 assists in 10 appearances this season.
Despite Barca's quarter-final exit to Atletico Madrid, where he scored in the second leg, Yamal's individual brilliance was a consistent highlight. His maturity post-match, comforting teammates, shows a leader in the making, beyond just the dazzling footwork. This is the kind of potential worth every single penny and every ounce of development.