Lamine Yamal scored his first World Cup goal — What his mom wants him to never forget

Lamine Yamal is 18 years old, yet he’s become one of the most admired names in the world of soccer. The FC Barcelona and Spanish national team player is living a reality few teenagers could imagine: breaking records, signing multimillion-dollar contracts, starring in ad campaigns, and acquiring a level of fame that crosses borders. But behind the star is a family working hard to make sure success doesn’t throw him off course. In that mission, his mother, Sheila Ebana, plays a key role.

While the whole world watches his every move, Ebana holds onto one simple but powerful piece of advice: that her son should “always be himself, stay grounded, and never let it get to his head.” It’s a phrase that sums up the philosophy she’s used to raise him since he was a kid. 

Yamal’s meteoric rise could easily have been the perfect setup for any young player to get swept up in fame. He made his first-team debut at Barcelona as a teenager, breaking records for his age and achievements, quickly going from a promising prospect to a bona fide star. But those close to him say his family has played a key role in keeping him grounded. In an interview with DAZN following taking the European Championship at the age of 16, Ebana reminded Yama to take things “step by step.”

His Mother: One of Yamal’s Biggest Pillars in Life and Career

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Ebana has been by Yamal’s side through every stage of his growth, making sure he doesn’t forget where he comes from. According to various interviews and profiles about the player, one of her biggest concerns is that success won’t make him lose his perspective, and that he’ll keep being the same humble kid who once dreamed of making it as a soccer star.

That mindset is especially important in today’s era, when young people can become global celebrities before they’re legal adults. Social media, millions of followers, and constant exposure can create enormous pressure, playing an important role in how much influence parents have and how they choose to raise their kids.

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Ebana celebrated Yamal’s goal as his number one fan alongside Inés García, his girlfriend. She celebrated just as enthusiastically when Mikel Oyarzabal scored the two goals that put Spain up 3-0 before halftime, sealing the match. 

“If Spain wins the World Cup, I’ll teach you all how to cook rice with peanut sauce, and the other promise was going to Ibiza with my girlfriends,” Yamal’s mother promised earlier.

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