Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal claims that achieving the same level as Lionel Messi is ‘unattainable.’

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In a remarkable turn of events, Lamine Yamal has sought to downplay the lofty comparisons being drawn between him and the legendary Lionel Messi. The young Barcelona starlet, who has taken the footballing world by storm, insists that reaching the Argentine’s unparalleled level is “impossible.”

At just 17 years of age, Yamal has enjoyed a sensational breakout season in 2023-24, establishing himself as one of Barcelona’s key players. His contributions have not only propelled the Catalan giants but also played a pivotal role in Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024.

With Messi having previously occupied the right wing at Camp Nou, it’s only natural that Yamal has found himself in the spotlight, with many eager to draw parallels between the two. However, the teenager is keen to carve out his own identity, stating, “I like that they compare me to the greatest player in the history of football, but I want to be myself. Reaching Messi’s level is impossible.”

Interestingly, Yamal was photographed as a six-month-old baby alongside Messi for a charity calendar back in 2007. Reflecting on that moment, he quipped, “Man, he passed along some of his powers to me. I still have a lot to give.”

Despite his tender age, Yamal has already racked up an impressive 55 appearances for Barcelona. His stellar performances in La Liga were complemented by a remarkable showing at Euro 2024, where he made history as the youngest player to feature in a European Championship at just 16 years and 338 days old. His emergence as a key player for Spain in Germany has certainly not gone unnoticed.

Such dazzling displays have sparked speculation of a transfer fee exceeding €100 million to lure the prodigious talent away from Catalonia. However, Yamal has made it abundantly clear that his heart lies with Barcelona. “I don’t want those €120 million because then I would have to leave Barca,” he stated emphatically. “I hope I never have to leave. I want to be a legend.”

Currently contracted with Barcelona until 2026, Yamal’s future looks bright, with sporting director Deco expressing a desire to renew his contract once he turns 18. Reports suggest that the release clause in his contract is a staggering £1 billion, a testament to the faith the club has in their young star.

Reflecting on his debut for the club at the tender age of 15, Yamal shared a nostalgic memory: “I remember I arrived before anyone else and I had to eat breakfast. But I didn’t go. I waited by the bicycles and didn’t come out until everyone left.”

As Yamal continues to develop, the footballing world will be watching closely to see if he can indeed forge his own legacy, separate from the shadow of Messi.