Spain and Barcelona wunderkind Lamine Yamal termed Argentine World Cup-winner and Barca legend Lionel Messi as the greatest player in the history of the sport.
Yamal revealed that he used to study Messi’s
play growing up, but added that he looks to carve a path fo himself instead of attempting to better the Argentine genius.
“As a kid, I used to study Leo Messi’s passes. Other players made good passes, but Messi’s passes were pretty much goals.”
“I always thought passing was more interesting than dribbling. They’re somewhat more clever.”
“I think I respect Messi in the end for what he was and for what he is for football. And if we ever meet on a football pitch someday, there will be mutual respect.”
“He’s the best player in football history and we both know that I don’t want to be Messi, and Messi knows that I don’t want to be him. I want to follow my own path, and that’s all there is to it.”
Yamal revealed that people from different walks of life have taken a shine to his skills on the field and the teenage sensation expressed his delight with the same.
Since his debut with the Blaugrana, Yamal has made a significant impact on the football world, leading them to the La Liga title last year under the guidance of Hansi Flick.
Yamal, who was born and raised in Spain, has Moroccan roots and had the eligibility to represent the African nation, but chose to don the famous La Roja drip and played a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 title win.
Yamal has been the subject of extensive media coverage due to his lavish lifestyle off the pitch and has faced recurring groin injuries this season. However, his abilities on the pitch are up for no debate.
He made his return to Barcelona as the club returned to its historic home of Camp Nou after a year. The iconic stadium is undergoing renovations to increase its capacity.
Yamal scored a goal in Blaugrana’s 3-1 victory over Alaves on Saturday, helping them climb to the top of the La Liga standings after Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw at Girona.
