Lamine Yamal Names Lionel Messi as the Greatest Player in History and Talks About His Young Career

Lamine Yamal shone in Madrid; the Barça star received the Laureus for the best young athlete and dreams of following in Messi's footsteps toward the World Cup

Another award for Yamal

The Palacio de Cibeles in Madrid was the setting for a special evening for Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona striker became one of the stars of the gala when he received the Laureus World Sports Academy Award for World Youth Athlete of the Year, an accolade that places him at the forefront of international sports. The award was presented by the legendary Brazilian Cafú, and the young Barcelona player responded with words that reflect a maturity unusual for someone just 18 years old.

“It's hard to realize that it's a responsibility and you can't make mistakes because you're an example for a lot of kids, but I see it as a good thing. That's why, whenever I send a message, I try to do it meaningfully and with the aim of helping more people… I'll make mistakes at times, but I'm only 18 years old,” Yamal said at a press conference.

Messi as a role model for the player

The striker didn't hesitate to name Lionel Messi as his greatest role model: “When you realize that an athlete is not only a legend in their own sport but in all others, it's because they are the best. Messi is an example. He's the greatest soccer player in history, and he's also the greatest athlete. For me, he's not just another idol. Everyone respects him for everything he has achieved, and I hope to follow in his footsteps.”

He also thanked the organization for the award: “I am proud that the academy has recognized me with this award and that I am the first person to win it.”

Regarding his connection with fans through social media, Yamal emphasized: “We're a different generation; it's not the same soccer… People are also entertained by what you do off the field, and I like this change.”

An unfulfilled dream

Finally, he talked about the dream that keeps him awake at night: the World Cup. “Since I was a kid, I've dreamed of playing in a World Cup, of being able to see my mother in the stands, of representing the national team… It will be two months that will fly by, and of course, I hope we come out champions."