News Focus
- Lionel Messi identifies FC Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal as the player who most resembles his own early career
- The pair share key attributes: both are left-footed, wear the number 10 shirt, and possess outstanding dribbling ability
- Messi offered his praise at an Adidas promotional event for the 2026 World Cup in North America
- The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner contrasted his entry into a dominant side with Yamal’s rise during the club’s financial struggles
Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has publicly named Lamine Yamal as his successor at FC Barcelona. The Inter Miami forward made the declaration while attending an Adidas product launch for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
When journalists asked which current footballer reminds him of his own youth, Messi selected the 17-year-old Spain international without hesitation. He cited the teenager’s left foot, close control, and mature performances as clear parallels to his own development.
Both stars have worn the iconic number 10 jersey for the Catalan giants. However, their paths to the first team were markedly different. Messi joined a squad that would soon conquer Europe under Pep Guardiola. Yamal, by contrast, established himself during a period of strict economic controls and squad rebuilding at the club.
Messi also reflected on his famous competition with Cristiano Ronaldo. He described their battles as a respectful “beautiful sporting rivalry” that benefited both players. The veteran stressed that despite competing for individual honours and club trophies, he and the Portuguese striker always maintained a cordial relationship.
The World Cup winner noted that Yamal currently lacks an equivalent rival at Real Madrid to drive him forward. During Messi’s peak years, Ronaldo’s presence at the Bernabéu provided constant motivation through their direct clashes in El Clásico and beyond.