The strongest endorsement of Lamine Yamal's incredible rise so far could only come from Leo Messi himself who admitted that the 18-year-old reminds him of his younger self at Barcelona.
In a recent interview, the Barcelona legend revealed, that the La Masia graduate is the most exciting talent of the new generation. "From the new generation of players, I think Lamine Yamal is the one who reminds me the most of myself when I started", Messi said. The declaration comes just as the youngster prepares to lead Spain into the 2026 World Cup and continue breaking records.
Statistical proof: A better 18 year old than Messi?
Messi's claim can be substantiated by a few stats. Lamine Yamal has shown a level of production and consistency that very few, if any in history have displayed at such a tender age.
- 2025/26 La Liga Stats: Yamal has managed 16 goals and 11 assists in 28 appearances so far this season.
- Efficiency; The youngster's per 90min stats of 1.07 goals + assists have outperformed his xG of 12.81.
- Creativity; Apart from goals, Yamal has produced 72 chances and has completed 133 dribbles and also leads the league in progressive carrying into the final third.
The 343m valuation: The most valuable player on the planet.
Messi's statement echoes the market value of the winger, and according to the new CIES Football Observatory data, Lamine Yamal is now the most valuable player in the entire world. The 18 year old is valued at an astonishing 343 million, having surpassed the likes of Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.
Barcelona tied him down to a contract which expires in June 2031 to continue building the sporting project around the player Messi referred to as the "best of this new generation".
Tactical maturation under Hansi Flick
The most noticeable change in Lamine Yamal this season has been a tactical one brought on by Hansi Flick's vertical system. While he is still dangerous from the right wing, Yamal has adapted a "Messi-esque" style of dropping deeper to link up play with one-touch passes, before darting into the box.
Messi acknowledged the maturation with the following comments: "I have no doubt, for me Lamine is the BEST of this new generation. Because of what he has done so far and the future he could go on to have". There is no doubt now after this testament from the greatest ever that he is no longer simply a prospect, but the new face of the club.
What is next for Lamine Yamal
After already scooping up the Laureus "World Young Sportsperson of the Year" award, and finishing 2nd in the 2025 Ballon d'Or award, the next step for Lamine Yamal is leading his nation to a World Cup triumph in 2026.
Messi's statement now gives him the ultimate seal of approval as he looks to achieve such with his country in the summer.
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