Lionel Messi hails Barcelona star as “one of the best players in the world”

Lionel Messi has praised Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, describing the 17-year-old as already “one of the best players in the world” and backed him to keep improving.

In an interview with Simplemente Fútbol, the Barcelona legend spoke highly of his young successor, emphasising that Yamal has a bright future ahead, much like Messi did during his own rise to stardom.

Messi expressed admiration for the remarkable achievements Yamal had already accomplished at such a young age, particularly highlighting his standout performances at the European Championship with Spain last summer.

At just 16 years old for the majority of the tournament, Yamal made history by becoming the youngest player to both play and score in a Euros match.

He also earned the prestigious Golden Boy award for his consistent performances throughout the competition.

Lionel Messi said: “It’s impressive what Lamine Yamal shows… he’s already been a Euro champion with Spain.

“He’s still only 17, he’s in a growth process, and he’ll continue to grow as a player and add things to his game, just like I did. He has incredible qualities and he’s already one of the best players in the world.”

Barcelona currently hold a four-point lead over Real Madrid in La Liga, are set to face Los Blancos in the Copa del Rey final later this month, and have a Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan to prepare for.

For Lamine Yamal, winning a treble and an international trophy before his 18th birthday would mark one of the most impressive starts to a career we’ve ever witnessed.