Soccer
“There’s No One Else Like Him” – Former Barcelona Captain Advises Against Comparing Lamine Yamal to the Legendary Lionel Messi
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Get to know Sushan Chakraborty betterPublished25 Oct 2024
Ex-Barcelona star Jordi Alba has suggested it is unfair to compare budding superstar Lamine Yamal to eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi. Alba said the Argentinian was one of a kind but also hailed Yamal for his age-defying performances.
Jordi Alba Does Not Want Lamine Yamal to be Compared to Barcelona icon Lionel Messi
Less than two years into his professional career, La Masia graduate Yamal has emerged as one of the most talked-about soccer players in the world. The 17-year-old made his debut when he was only 15, has become the youngest European champion in history, and regularly chips in with decisive performances for Barcelona.
His rise to stardom has unsurprisingly drawn comparisons with the most successful player in history, La Masia’s very own Messi. Many believe the Spain international could end up making a similar impact for the Catalans, but Alba, one of Messi’s closest friends, does not think it is right to compare the two.
Speaking to Spanish outlet MARCA, Inter Miami left-back Alba said:
“When I was at Barca, he was already training occasionally with the first team, and he even debuted in a match against Betis. It’s clear that he’s grown tremendously—he’s just 17, and what he’s doing is incredible. He needs , and the people there are doing a great job with him.
“We need to be patient and not compare him to anyone, because in the end, Leo is Leo, and there’s no one else like him. But I think he’s having a great season, taking on responsibilities that aren’t easy at 17, and that deserves a lot of credit. I hope he continues to learn and enjoy football.”
How has Lamine Yamal Performed this Season?
Yamal has been one of the first names on the team sheet for new manager Flick, and understandably so. He has been scoring goals and providing assists for fun, but that is hardly the extent of his genius. What makes him stand out is his ability to help his team even on his off days, when he fails to contribute to a goal.
Since the start of the 2024-25 season, Yamal has featured in 13 games for Barcelona in all competitions, scoring five goals and providing seven assists. He has failed to score or assist in just three of 13 matches thus far.
