Yamal: "Messi is the best player in football history, and I hope to follow in his footsteps"

Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has expressed his profound admiration for Argentine legend Lionel Messi, affirming his belief that Messi is the greatest player in football history.

Speaking at the Laureus Awards 2026 ceremony, Yamal stated that Messi is not merely a footballing icon but a role model for an entire generation of players. He said, "For me, Messi is the best player in the history of football."

Yamal continued, "I don't know if he is the best in all sports, but he is close to it. He is a player respected globally for what he has achieved, and he was present in the childhood of all children who played at school or in the neighborhood."

Yamal concluded his remarks by saying, "I hope to follow in his footsteps and one day have one of those awards in my home."

Many observers and critics draw comparisons between Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi, citing Yamal's distinctive playing style, his dribbling ability, and his capacity to make a significant impact despite his young age. This has led some to consider him one of the most prominent talents who could follow in the footsteps of the Argentine star in the future.