Nani: It’s fair that Yamal didn’t win the Ballon d’Or this year. He can win multiple Ballons d’Or with normal development.

A few days ago, Nani participated in the "Portuguese Football Summit" hosted by the Portuguese Football Association. This Portuguese meritorious player accepted an exclusive interview with "AS".

■You are in good physical condition now. Do you think you can still play for the Portuguese team coached by Martinez?

Nani said: "That's in the past (laughs). You know how fast football changes... But yes, I would love to play for a team with such a strong possession. It's great to watch them play, the way they pass the ball and control the ball is enjoyable."

■ You were one of the first "modern wingers". Now that Spain has Yamal, what do you think of him?

"In my opinion, Yamal is a really great kid. He is pure genius and has a bright future. He has even been nominated for the Ballon d'Or. Although he has not won the award yet, I think it is fair because everyone knows that one day he will win the Ballon d'Or. If he can stay focused and self-disciplined and develop according to a normal growth trajectory, he will definitely win multiple Ballon d'Or."

■ Do you think he is already the best in the world?

"He will become a world-class super player and will continue to help Spain win championships, just like they won the 2024 European Cup. I admire him very much. Now all the children want to be Lamin because they like his playing style."

■ Lamin is only 18 years old, do you think he can reach the heights of Messi or Ronaldo?

"Messi and Ronaldo? I think it's too early to talk about this. Such comparisons will only hurt his development. We can't compare anyone with Messi and Ronaldo. They have already accomplished great achievements in football history. As long as subsequent players go their own way, we should also applaud them. The problem is that whenever a new star appears nowadays, people immediately say: "He is the next Ronaldo" or "The next Messi", but then these players are often crushed by the pressure. I hope not to be like this. Do, don’t let this comparison ruin young people. "

■C Ronaldo's goals are close to 1,000...

"Everyone has known him since he was young. He has been stronger than his peers since he was a child, always playing with older players, has amazing ball control skills and a style that is very entertaining to watch. He is the kind of player who can inspire a generation. I knew him from my days at Sporting Lisbon and we connected very quickly. He is different. ”

■How long do you think Ronaldo can play?

"I don't know, but I know that he is very self-disciplined and pays great attention to physical maintenance. To be honest, I don't know how old humans can play until they are 50 years old (laughing). But there are players in Japan or China who play until they are 50 years old. I don't know if Cristiano Ronaldo will be like that. I think he is just chasing his goals and may do other things in a few years. But while he is still playing, he will go all out and decide when to stop."

■Portugal defeated Spain in the UEFA Nations League. Do you think Martinez's Portugal can become World Cup champions?

"Portugal is now full of confidence, and we believe we have a chance to win the World Cup. Winning depends not only on individual ability, but also on the mental state during the game. The secret to our victory in the European Cup in 2016 is the spirit and mentality of the team. If Portugal can play in the World Cup with the same spirit, half of the battle has been won. Now our players are at the top level in the world in their respective positions. This is a golden generation with great talent and great potential."