'Not Messi, like..' Barcelona skipper Raphinha draws comparison of Lamine Yamal to the Brazilian star

Barcelona's skipper Raphinha has drawn an intriguing comparison between his teammate Lamine Yamal and fellow Brazilian star Neymar, while also noting the frequent comparisons to Lionel Messi. The 17-year-old Yamal has been influential at Barcelona, establishing himself as a key player on the team despite his young age.

Lionel Messi, regarded as the most outstanding product of the club's academy, serves as a benchmark for many of the club's emerging talents. Yamal, who developed his skills at the renowned La Masia academy, is an impressive left-footed playmaker.

Raphina compares Yamal to Neymar

When asked about comparisons between Yamal and Messi, Raphinha offered his perspective, suggesting that Yamal's unique dribbling style and skill set align more closely with those of Neymar rather than following in Messi's footsteps.

“Is Lamine following Messi's footsteps? I see him more like Neymar. His dribbles, how quickly he thinks of dribbles... When you think you can steal the ball from him, he does something you've never seen in your life." Raphinha stated.

Lamine Yamal has been impactful to both club and international football in 2024, culminating in an impressive eighth-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d'Or. At only 17 years old, he not only became the youngest recipient of the Kopa Trophy but also set a record as the youngest goalscorer in El Clasico.

Inspired by the brilliance of Messi and Neymar, whom he admired while growing up, Yamal's playing style reflects elements of both legends.

Neymar to leave Saudi soon

Brazilian superstar Neymar is emerging as a potential candidate for a reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami in the summer of 2025. Recently, the Al-Hilal star has made a significant investment by purchasing a €26 million property in Bal Harbor, just a short distance from Miami Beach, which could set the stage for a friendly neighbourly relationship between the two icons.

If the transfer takes place, he will join Messi for the third time, having already been teammates at both PSG and Barcelona.