France midfielder Adrien Rabiot has taken a more cautious approach ahead of the FIFA World Cup semi-final against Spain, reflecting on his past comments about Spanish wonderkid Lamine Yamal. In a previous encounter before the Euro 2024 semi-final, Rabiot had criticized Yamal, suggesting he needed to do much more to compete at the highest level. This statement backfired when Yamal scored a stunning goal, leading Spain to a comeback victory and knocking France out of the tournament.

As the two teams prepare to meet again, Rabiot has shifted his focus. He insists that the French team is concentrating on Spain as a whole rather than targeting any single player. “There is no anti-Lamine Yamal plan. We are focusing on the Spanish national team, not just one player,” he stated. Rabiot acknowledged the multiple threats posed by the Spanish squad, including their attacking players and tactical prowess.

Despite the confidence within the French camp, Rabiot emphasized the importance of humility. He remarked, “Nothing guarantees that we are going to win. That will be decided out on the pitch.” The midfielder expressed belief in his team’s capabilities while acknowledging the strength of their opponents. He noted that preparation would be key to their success and highlighted the need to maintain focus and respect for Spain.

When asked about his previous comments regarding Yamal, Rabiot downplayed the incident, stating he didn’t recall the specifics but recognized that his thoughts at the time were reflective of his mindset. As the match approaches, Rabiot is keen to ensure that the French team remains united and prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.