Lamine Yamal (18): 'My mom used to make this dish for me and I always eat it before training'

Lamine Yamal, at 18 years old, has shared on several occasions a very personal detail that is part of his routine before training. The young footballer from FC Barcelona has revealed that there is a special dish his mother used to prepare for him and that he still eats before every session to keep strong and competitive. This family tradition, which holds great meaning for him, has been key to facing his athletic challenges with the best energy.

However, it is not just any ordinary meal, but a very specific dish that has shaped his diet since he was a child. Throughout his career, Lamine Yamal has stood out not only for his innate talent but also for taking great care of his body and his diet. In a recent interview for GQ magazine, the player revealed that the dish he values so much is rice with peanut sauce, a traditional recipe from Equatorial Guinea.

This culinary choice is no coincidence, since his mother is originally from that African country, which explains the importance and affection he has for this unique dish. The peanut sauce, rich in protein and nutrients, is essential for Lamine to boost his strength and endurance before stepping onto the field. "My mother always made it for me before matches so I could gain strength," the footballer confessed, making clear the great symbolic and nutritional value of the food.

The influence of culinary tradition on Lamine Yamal's development

Rice with peanut sauce is very popular in several African countries, especially in Equatorial Guinea, and is characterized by its combination of nutritious ingredients that provide sustained energy. In addition, it is common to find variations of this sauce accompanying both meats and fish, which makes it a versatile dish adapted to the needs of demanding athletes like Yamal. Its flavor and caloric content make it an ideal choice before an intense training session or a match.

Meanwhile, the balanced diet that the young footballer keeps is only one part of his preparation. His training sessions, currently led by Hansi Flick, include endurance, strength, and technical exercises to improve his performance on the field. This combination of physical effort and proper nutrition has been key for Lamine to stand out at 18 years old as one of the young prospects of Spanish soccer.

Cultural legacy as a drive to achieve excellence

In addition, Lamine Yamal has always expressed his pride in his cultural roots. Although his talent has flourished in Spain, his identity is shaped by the heritage of his Guinean mother and Moroccan father. This blend of cultures is reflected not only in his favorite food but also in his way of understanding life and sports. 

Finally, behind Lamine Yamal's success there is much more than talent: there is tradition, effort, and a family bond that accompanies him in every match. That dish his mother prepares for him remains a symbol of strength and motivation, a secret that helps him keep strong and focused on his goals. Without a doubt, this combination is one of the ingredients that make Lamine an outstanding footballer.