At simply 17 years outdated, Lamine Yamal continues to supply breathtaking performances, fueling hypothesis about his future and drawing comparisons to soccer legends Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona. Nevertheless, after Barcelona’s hard-fought 1-0 win in opposition to Alaves, head coach Hansi Flick weighed in on the dialog, delivering an vital message concerning these comparisons.
Barcelona confronted Alaves in an important Matchday 22 fixture of the 2024-25 La Liga season, and as soon as once more, Yamal stole the present. Though he didn’t get on the scoresheet, his particular person brilliance was on full show, showcasing the qualities of a world-class participant within the making.
One specific second went viral early within the match when, within the 4th minute, Yamal picked up the ball deep in his personal half and launched into a mesmerizing solo run, drawing strain from 5 defenders earlier than threading a exact cross to Raphinha, creating a transparent scoring alternative.
Following the sport, Flick was requested whether or not he sees shades of Messi or Maradona in Yamal. The German coach, nonetheless, was fast to downplay such comparisons. “I’m not a fan of that, you realize? Lamine is particular, he’s a genius. I believe I stated it within the final press convention. What he did at this time in some conditions was unbelievable, and I’m very glad that he’s taking part in for Barca,” Flick stated in his post-match press convention.
Whereas Flick dismissed direct comparisons, he didn’t draw back from praising Yamal’s outstanding capability: “For a 17-year-old, he’s doing actually nice. Each match, each match, he’s good. And the opponents should not simple to play in opposition to—they’re robust, they defend properly, they attempt to assault him, be aggressive, however he’s dealing with it properly. I really like this boy.”
With 11 profitable dribbles in opposition to Alaves and a season tally of 10 objectives and 15 assists in 29 video games, Yamal has already surpassed Messi’s purpose complete on the similar age whereas taking part in a key function in Barcelona’s assault. If he continues on this trajectory, he may cement himself as one of many sport’s best gamers within the coming many years.
What does Yamal take into consideration Messi comparisons?
Left-footed, a La Masia graduate, and thriving with no consideration winger at a younger age—it’s no shock that many see Messi’s reflection in Yamal. Having already performed a decisive function in Spain’s UEFA Euro marketing campaign, he has proven that he can deal with the large stage.
Nevertheless, Yamal himself will not be solely snug with these comparisons. In an interview with MARCA after profitable the Golden Boy award, the Barcelona star addressed the fixed parallels with Messi:
“It’s an honor (to be in comparison with Messi), however I’m making an attempt to put in writing my very own story. Messi is the most effective in historical past, and I’m nonetheless taking my first steps. These comparisons generally don’t assist,” Yamal said, making it clear that whereas the reward is flattering, he needs to carve his personal legacy.
Loading…
