(Web Desk) — Wayne Rooney, the renowned English footballer, has lavished praise on Spain’s winger Nico Williams for his fearless playing style ahead of the European Championship (Euro) 2024 final. The highly anticipated match is set for Sunday between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion Berlin in Germany.

Rooney drew comparisons between Williams and a young Cristiano Ronaldo, stating that the Spanish player reminded him of his former colleague in his early years. Williams has been instrumental in Spain’s journey to their first Euro final since 2012, when they clinched the title by defeating Italy.

Rooney highlighted the threat posed by Spain’s wingers, particularly Williams and Lamine Yamal, urging England to strengthen their defense. “England will need to defend well on the flanks against Spain, because their brilliant two young wingers provide their main threat,” Rooney told The Times.

He noted that Yamal, who scored a stunning goal against France, reminded him of his own experience as a teenager at Euro 2004, enjoying the game with confidence and enthusiasm. “Fear? Young lads like him, Nico Williams, and Mainoo haven’t lived long enough to know it or understand what it is. On the big stage of a European Championship, they’re just playing and enjoying it and having fun, and normally that’s the best way to play the game.”

Rooney, a Manchester United legend, praised Williams for his exceptional talent, likening his style of play to Ronaldo’s. “Williams, for me, is exceptional. He reminds me of Cristiano Ronaldo when Cristiano was young. He’s a big lad, he’ll take the ball and sometimes tries too much but usually makes the right decisions,” Rooney said.

He emphasized Williams’ threat in one-on-one situations and his goal-scoring ability, warning that England must be cautious. “England need to be really careful with him,” Rooney added.