Since his sensational debut in April 2023, at the age of 15, Yamal has been compared to the Argentine superstar. Now aged 18, European champion with Spain and finalist for the Ballon d’Or, he has become one of the biggest stars in football.
This season, Yamal has been hampered by a persistent groin injury, but he has nevertheless managed to be decisive on the pitch. In 11 appearances, he scored six goals and provided six assists, an impressive record.
Yamal has been hampered by a lingering groin injury
Messi, meanwhile, only joined the FC Barcelona first team at the age of 17. Like Yamal, he signed a lucrative and long-term contract when he turned 18, and the rest is history.
The rise of the two superstars is certainly comparable, but Barca legend Jordi Alba warns against any comparison between Messi, now 38 and arguably the greatest player of all time, and the young prodigy.
Alba: Nobody compares to Messi
Speaking on Cadena SER, Alba said bluntly: “
Comparing Lamine to Leo is impossible. Leo Messi is without rival in my eyes. »
However, he recognized that Yamal is a player “
fantastic “, but was keen to point out that players like Frenkie de Jong and Pedri are also essential to Hansi Flick’s current squad.
Alba was also asked about Messi’s surprise visit to the renovated Camp Nou, which FC Barcelona were apparently unaware of. “ We all have the key to the stadium, especially those of us who have spent many years there,” he joked. “ I had absolutely no idea that Messi took this photo. »
