Lamine Yamal earns Barcelona legend’s stamp of approval

What Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal is doing right now simply cannot be ignored. Ronaldo, Mbappe, De Bruyne, Bellingham — all under the bright lights of European Football’s biggest stage — and it’s a 16- year old who steals the show. 

Yamal’s Euro 2024 was quite the unprecedented run. The wonderkid bagged five goal contributions, a strong contender for goal of the tournament, and his first major International trophy a day after celebrating his 17th birthday. The youngster put football on notice, and his breathtaking tournament demanded the attention of the entire sports world. So it comes as no surprise that Barcelona legend Neymar Jr. showed his appreciation in the comment section of Yamal’s most recent Instagram post.

Neymar’s acknowledgment isn’t just a simple social media gesture; his stamp of approval carries a profound significance for Yamal. The Brazilian forward’s influence the next generation of footballers is well documented in Brazil, but perhaps Neymar Jr. does not receive enough credit for his impact on the next generation. Yamal’s flair, agility, and creativity on the ball mirror the qualities that have made Neymar such a household name, and that can be observed by fans and analysts alike.

For NeymarJr. recognizing Yamal’s talent is a way of passing the torch to the next generation. He’s aware of his influence and always makes sure that the younger footballers feel his love and support. Even though Neymar’s trophy cabinet isn’t as full as Messi or Ronaldo’s his starpower cannot be denied.

An entertainer at heart, Neymar dazzled during his time at Barca. Prancing around any defender with the gall to challenge him in open space, he stole the hearts of Cules and established himself as a living legend. Now, supporters of the club dream that Lamine Yamal can reach those heights, and even surpass them.

At just 17, Lamine is staking his claim as the face of the next generation, and Yamal is already being idolized by the next next generation, considered by many to be the successor to Lionel Messi and his nearly 18-year reign at Barcelona. After Lamine’s performance at Euro 2024, those shouts will only grow louder.

"When I was little I looked up to Messi or Neymar, and seeing that children now look up to me is amazing"

-  Lamine Yamal

The football world eagerly watches as Lamine Yamal writes his own story, inspired by the long line of Barcelona legends that came before him. As the cheers and support continue to grow, as will the expectation and the criticism. Young Yamal has already demonstrated the mental toughness to step up to the plate, and he can rest assured knowing that he has icons like Neymar Jr. in his corner.