'I agree .' Lionel Messi's huge prediction about Lamine Yamal's future

Lionel Messi has expressed admiration for Barcelona's promising young talent, Lamine Yamal, noting that the 16-year-old reminds him of his youth. During a recent event at Adidas' headquarters in Herzogenaurach, Germany, Messi was asked by Nigerian artist Goke Oyewo to identify a player from the new generation who reflects his early playing style, to which the legend replied it's Spain's young sensation Lamine Yamal.

Messi's take on Yamal 

"There's a very good generation of young footballers who have many years ahead of them," Messi 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." Messi added.

"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." he added.

Yamal is a standout product of Barcelona's prestigious youth academy, La Masia. Messi has made it clear that any comparisons to him are misguided, as it is simply impossible to attain his extraordinary level of achievement.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, now 37, departed from Barça in 2021 after an incredible 21-year tenure, during which he secured a record 34 titles with the club.

Lamine Yamal the 'Youngster of the season' 

Yamal, just 17 years old, was named Young Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024 for his significant role in helping Spain secure the title. He made a notable impact, finishing eighth in the recent Ballon d'Or rankings.

This season, the Spanish forward has been a force for Barça, scoring five goals and providing 10 assists in just 15 league appearances so far.

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