New Delhi: Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and arguably the greatest footballer of all time, has left an undeniable mark on Barcelona. As the 37-year-old legend’s career nears its twilight, the football world has been waiting to hear who Lionel Messi believes can follow in his footsteps at Barcelona. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner in a recent Adidas event in Germany officially shared his thoughts on who might carry his legacy at Barcelona.
The 37-year-old said, “If I have to choose someone, because of the age and because of the future that he has, I’ve heard that they have chosen Lamine Yamal and without doubt [it’s him] for me, too. I agree it depends on him and many things because that’s how soccer is, but he’s the present and without a doubt has a huge future.”
Like Messi, Yamal is a product of Barcelona’s renowned La Masia youth academy and has been attracting attention with his impressive performances for both his club and Spain. The 17-year-old has downplayed comparisons to the Argentine icon stating that such comparisons are unfair and that reaching Messi’s level is nearly impossible. After Messi’s praise, Yamal shared a post on social media expressing his affection for his idol.
— Lamine Yamal 🇪🇸 (@Lamineeyamal__) December 12, 2024
The Spaniard has scored five goals and set up 10 assists in 15 appearances in La Liga this season so far for Barca. He was named Young Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024 after helping Spain win the finals and boasts La Liga and European Championship titles and was even recently crowned the 2024 Kopa Trophy and Golden Boy.
For Argentine maestro, Yamal is not just a prospect but a player with significant potential. His recognition among the top young players in the world underscores the same.
Messi on Barcelona
Lionel Messi left Barcelona in 2021 when the club was unable to renew his contract. During his 21 years with the Catalans, Messi won a record 34 titles. Despite now playing for Inter Miami he continues to follow his former club closely and has often expressed his affection for his boyhood club.
Messi has expressed his hopes for Barcelona’s continued success, saying, “I would love to see Barca win La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and also the Champions League again. And in the years that they don’t, at least they compete until the last moment.”
With young talents like Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, and Marc Casado emerging, the future looks promising for Barcelona. Messi’s recent endorsement has added to the excitement surrounding Yamal, and many will be watching to see how the teenager develops.
Lionel Messi reveals who he believes is the best fit to carry his legacy at Barcelona. Discover the Argentine maestro’s pick. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
