Image source, Getty Images
There is no doubt in Lionel Messi’s mind. When asked about the best new generation players at a World Cup advertisement event, Messi said, “That’s Lamin. No doubt about it: for me, he’s the best.”
In the same week, American TV network CBS asked Lamin Yamal about Spain’s chances of winning the World Cup. He smiled and confidently replied, “We will win.”
The Spanish ‘wonderkid’ Lamin Yamal is gaining praise not only for his talent but also for his composure and clarity on the pitch, carving out a unique identity among young footballers.
At 18 years old, he has already played in the Champions League semi-finals and the European Championship. He was bestowed Barcelona’s iconic number 10 jersey, worn by Messi for fifteen years. Beyond his immense talent, his calm demeanor stands out most.
Comparisons with Messi Are Inevitable
Image source, Getty Images
Whether he likes it or not, Lamin Yamal is often compared to Messi.
Both share exceptional left-foot skills. Lamin’s dribbling and trickery resemble Messi’s style, making difficult plays look effortless.
At that age, Messi’s impact was significant, but Lamin’s influence seems even greater. However, predicting Lamin can sustain Messi’s high standards is still premature.
Although the comparison may seem unnecessary, statistics show Lamin Yamal is on track to become just as valuable a successor to Messi.
By 18, he has played 151 matches for Barcelona. On June 24, 2006, when Messi celebrated his 19th birthday, he had 41 crucial appearances.
During Barcelona’s golden era, Ronaldinho played alongside Messi and lifted the Champions League trophy.
“Messi and I made history, and now it’s Lamin Yamal’s turn. What he has shown at such a young age is unprecedented,” former Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho told FIFA’s website in March.
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand was also asked if Lamin Yamal is as talented at his age as Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo.
“Yes,” Ferdinand told ESPN, “his potential and level may even surpass them. At such a young age, the things he does no one else has. Except for Pelé, I had never seen anything like it.”
Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente has witnessed Lamin Yamal’s development across various youth levels and the national team, emphasizing it’s more than just technical skill.
“He is a blessed player. Exceptional talents often have a unique quality, and he has it,” de la Fuente said. “You instantly recognize a footballer who is destined to be special.”
Former Barcelona coach Hansi Flick shares the same view observing Yamal’s training and performance in major matches.
“He is special and talented. He shows up in big games; such maturity is usually seen in players 24 or 25 years old. If such talent comes once in fifty years, I’m glad Barcelona has him at this stage,” said Flick.
Lamin Yamal differs from other young players because he does not try to become Messi. He admires Messi but remains steadfast in his own style.
“For me, Messi is one of the greatest players in history,” he said. “He is great, and I don’t think I deserve to be compared with him.”
“I don’t want to become Messi, and he knows that. I want to chart my own path.”
He feels similarly about Cristiano Ronaldo. Lamin Yamal does not reject such comparisons or the legacy they bring but refuses to fill his ambitions based on that.
“It’s not good to compare yourself with anyone,” he said at an award ceremony.
“Players like Cristiano Ronaldo achieved what they wanted because they wanted to be like themselves. I strive to be myself, play my game, and want people to recognize me as Lamin.”
‘There Is No Pressure, It’s Just an Excuse’
Many contenders have vied for Messi’s throne in football, experiencing varying degrees of success and failure.
Players like Giovani dos Santos, Gerard Deulofeu, Ansu Fati, Munir El Haddadi, and Bojan Krkic were once seen as promising future stars.
Though extensively commented on by the media, Lamin Yamal prefers to focus on performance rather than talk. The discussion around the Ballon d’Or has been linked to him continuously for 16 years.
He plays football to entertain people. Children want to see players like themselves rather than Messi or Ronaldo.
“I’m not thinking about the Ballon d’Or. I want to enjoy and help Barcelona and the national team to win,” he said.
“There is no pressure, it’s just an excuse. When you play for fun, there is no pressure.”
Innocente Diaz, a coach who has closely observed Lamin Yamal’s rise through Barcelona’s academy, once said he might surpass Messi.
In 2025, he told the Spanish magazine ‘Sport’, “He is better than Messi. He possesses a unique combination of physical characteristics reminiscent of both Messi and Ronaldo. Within six years, he will win the Ballon d’Or.”
Lamin Yamal says his focus is on the World Cup.
Spain has expressed their World Cup prospects in ‘one word.’ Behind Lamin’s smile is a player who has waited a lifetime for this tournament.
“I have always imagined playing in the World Cup watching my mother in the stands. I hope to win it.”
The World Cup is just days away. Before the first semi-final on July 14, Lamin Yamal will still be 19 years old.
Spain is building a powerful team around Yamal for the World Cup.
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