Rising star Lamine Yamal has opened up about football legend Lionel Messi, after witnessing “The Flea” net a stunning hat-trick for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup.
The 38-year-old maestro proved his greatness once again in a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria. Reflecting on the performance, Yamal emphasized that there is absolutely no doubt that Messi remains the greatest player to ever grace the pitch.
Speaking to the media, Yamal stated: “Every match proves he’s the best in history. If anyone has doubts, it’s because they’re looking for them. There’s nothing more to say. My idol is Neymar, but Messi is the undisputed best.”
No Pressure to Match Messi and Mbappé
When questioned about the explosive, goal-scoring starts made by both Messi and Kylian Mbappé in the tournament, the 18-year-old insisted he feels no pressure to match the numbers of the two icons.
“My style of play is different,” Yamal added. “I want to enjoy my football and win trophies. I don’t want to score 16 goals only to get eliminated in the semifinals. That is not what I’m looking for at all.”
Yamal recently featured for 20 minutes in Spain’s goalless draw against Cape Verde. The teenage winger is expected to play at least 45 minutes in La Roja’s second group-stage match against Saudi Arabia this coming Sunday.
