Lamine Yamal has made his admiration clear after being crowned Best Young Athlete of the Year at the Laureus World Sports Awards, naming Lionel Messi as the greatest player in football history.
The 18-year-old FC Barcelona forward did not hesitate when asked about the debate, offering a direct and emphatic response.
“Leo Messi is the greatest footballer of all time and one of the contenders for the greatest athlete ever,” Yamal said. “Everyone respects what he has achieved, and I hope I can follow in his footsteps.”
Messi’s legacy at Barcelona remains unmatched. During his time with the club between 2005 and 2021, he made 778 appearances, scoring 672 goals and registering 303 assists, setting records that continue to define the club’s modern era.
After leaving Barcelona in 2021, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain, closing a historic chapter at the Camp Nou.
For Yamal, the comparison highlights both admiration and ambition. As one of the brightest young talents in world football, he is already carving out his own identity, but his comments underline a clear target.
Following Messi’s path is a challenge few can meet, yet Yamal’s rapid rise suggests he is prepared to aim high.
🚨🗣️ 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Lamine Yamal: “Leo Messi is the best footballer of all time, certainly in the discussion for the best athlete of all time.”
“Everyone respects him for what he’s achieved, and I hope I can follow in his footsteps.” pic.twitter.com/3xSS7HxakF
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) April 20, 2026
