Spanish rising football star Lamine Yamal has downplayed comparisons to Lionel Messi, acknowledging that it will be “impossible” to reach the legendary Argentine’s level, despite his remarkable breakout season. Yamal, while recognizing Messi’s extraordinary achievements, prefers to focus on his own development and career, aiming to make his own mark in the football world.
The 17-year-old Barcelona winger, Lamine Yamal, has continued to shine after a standout season where he made 37 league appearances. His performance in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph in Germany, where he was just 16 for most of the tournament, further elevated his profile. Yamal earned accolades such as Young Player of the Tournament, Goal of the Tournament, and a place in the Team of the Tournament. His impressive summer included four assists in seven games, and his strong start to the 2024-25 season has solidified his role at Barcelona. In four La Liga matches, Yamal has already scored once and provided four assists, creating 11 chances—only surpassed by Raphinha (12) and Vinicius Junior (15) in the division.
Given his exceptional form, Yamal has naturally drawn comparisons to Messi, who debuted for Barcelona at 17 and went on to score over 600 goals and win 34 trophies in 17 seasons. However, Yamal is quick to reject such comparisons, preferring to focus on his own path and development rather than being measured against Messi’s legendary career.
“I like that they compare me to the greatest player in the history of football, but I want to be myself,” Yamal told Spanish TV station Antena 3. “Reaching Messi’s level is impossible.”
Despite his humility, Yamal displayed a playful side by referencing a viral photo of himself as a six-month-old with Messi from a 2007 charity calendar. “He passed along some of his powers to me. I still have a lot to give,” Yamal joked.
With 55 appearances for Barcelona and interest from other clubs, Yamal remains committed to the Catalan giants. His contract, which runs until 2026, includes a £1bn release clause. “I don’t want those €120m [bids] because then I would have to leave Barca,” Yamal said. “I hope to never have to leave. I want to be a legend.”
