Spain outshone England in the Euro 2024 final, with Nico Williams scoring a crucial goal that drew widespread media acclaim. Lamine Yamal also impressed, and both wingers made the Team of the Tournament, catching the eye of Wayne Rooney. Rooney likened Williams to his former Manchester United teammate Cristiano Ronaldo during his early years. The Spaniard dazzled at Euro 2024, notably scoring in the final as England fell 2-1.
Spain’s path to victory was formidable, defeating Croatia, Italy, Germany, and France before overcoming Gareth Southgate’s England in the final. On the decisive day, Spain dominated, with 17-year-old Lamine Yamal setting up Williams for the opening goal. Though Cole Palmer equalized, Mikel Oyarzabal’s late goal secured Spain’s triumph.
Rooney Praises Nico Williams
“He reminds me of Cristiano Ronaldo”
Williams’ exceptional performance at Euro 2024 has drawn significant praise, potentially setting the stage for a big summer transfer. Rooney, reflecting on his experience with Ronaldo at Manchester United, said via Mundo Deportivo:
“Williams is exceptional. He reminds me of Cristiano Ronaldo when he was young. He’s a big lad, he takes the ball and sometimes tries too much, but usually he makes the right decisions. He’s an incredible threat in one-on-one situations and he scores goals too.”
Rooney, who played 206 games with Ronaldo at Manchester United, winning multiple major honors, knows well the style of play he sees in Williams. Unlike Rooney, who never won the Euros, Williams has already claimed the international title at just 22, setting him on a promising path.
Lamine Yamal’s Rising Stardom
Rooney also praised Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, comparing his impact to his own debut at Euro 2004. Rooney remarked:
“Lamine Yamal will be full of confidence after his brilliant goal against France and reminds me a bit of what I was like at Euro 2004 – a teenager having a great time.”
Yamal’s statistics reflect his potential:
- Games: 14
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 8
- Major Honours: 1
Williams’ statistics further underline his promise:
- Games: 20
- Goals: 4
- Assists: 6
- Major Honours: 1
Yamal and Williams, alongside teammates like Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo, and Marc Cucurella, made the UEFA Euro 2024 Team of the Tournament. Williams played in all but one game, scoring twice and assisting once, while Yamal contributed one goal and four assists in his seven appearances.