Spain's teenage winger Lamine Yamal has dismissed any notion that he could surpass football icon Lionel Messi, insisting the Argentine legend remains the greatest player in the sport's history. In an interview with El Pais newspaper, the 18-year-old Barcelona star made clear the gap between Messi and every other player.
Yamal: Messi's Advantage Over Everyone
"Impossible. For me, Messi's the best and he keeps proving it. He has an advantage over everyone and he's 40 years old," Yamal said, as reported by Reuters. The Spain international's comments come as Messi continues to perform at the highest level, defying age and maintaining his status as football's benchmark.
Self-Belief and Room for Growth
Yamal, however, expressed strong confidence in his own potential. "I see myself as much better than people see me. I know the road ahead is very long and that I have many things to improve," he said. He acknowledged that many observers may view his current level as his ceiling, but he disagrees. "I know people see me as if this is my level and that's it. But I can use all that confidence I have for many things. I insist: I have a long way to go, a lot to improve. And a lot, a lot, a lot of football," he added.
World Cup 2026: Injury-Hit Build-Up
The young winger has endured an injury-hit preparation for the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026. He made a late substitute appearance in Spain's disappointing 0-0 draw with Cape Verde in their tournament opener, his first match in nearly two months. Yamal played 25 minutes in that game and is expected to feature against Saudi Arabia on Sunday.
Despite the setback, Yamal remains focused on his development and contributing to Spain's campaign. His humility in comparing himself to Messi has won praise, while his determination to improve signals a bright future for the teenager.
