Lionel Messi has identified Lamine Yamal, the Barcelona sensation, as the young player who most reminds him of himself.
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The 17-year-old winger has taken the football world by storm since making his debut for Barcelona’s senior team in August 2023, following his development at La Masia.
In just over a year, Yamal has already made a name for himself, playing a crucial role in helping Barcelona win La Liga in his debut season.
His stock rose further during the summer as he played a key role in Spain’s victory at the European Championship, earning the prestigious Young Player of the Tournament award.
This season, Yamal has maintained his blistering form, contributing six goals and 11 assists across all competitions.
With Barcelona sitting at the top of the league, the young star’s performances have caught the eye of Messi, who shared his thoughts at an Adidas event in Germany.
“There’s a fantastic generation of young talent, but if I have to highlight one, it’s Lamine Yamal,” said Messi. “He has immense potential, and if he stays focused, he can achieve extraordinary things. Without a doubt, he’s the present and the future.”
Messi expressed his desire to see Barcelona succeed on multiple fronts, including La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League, after a challenging few seasons for his former club.
Interestingly, Messi and Yamal share a special connection—photos of the pair together when Yamal was a baby have surfaced, adding a layer of nostalgia to Messi’s endorsement.
As Barcelona prepares to host Leganes on Sunday, the team could extend their lead at the top of the table.
However, Real Madrid will first face Rayo Vallecano, with the chance to reclaim the top spot. Regardless of the standings, Yamal’s rise continues to fuel hope for Barcelona’s bright future.