Over the last year or so, Lamine Yamal has proven himself to be a truly gifted player and has dispelled any doubts about his ability with his incredible performances, for both FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
At only 17 years of age, the youngster is among the very best forwards currently playing in Europe, and there is no doubt that he has a very bright future ahead of him.
His performances have naturally attracted a lot of praise, and also some comparisons with some former players who themselves had exceptional careers playing at the highest level.
Being a La Masia graduate and playing for Barcelona, means a lot of people see Yamal as the heir of one of the club’s biggest legends, Lionel Messi, who might return to the Catalan club in the coming days to celebrate the club’s 125th anniversary.
As SPORT has reported, one of Messi’s former teammates at the Blaugrana club, Cesc Fabregas, was quite clear that Yamal resembles La Pulga in some aspects, despite discouraging such comparisons, as he spoke in an interview with ESPN:
“I understand the comparisons, but I don’t like them because I believe every player is different, and we all have our own story. Now Lamine needs to follow his own path and create his own journey.”
“It’s clear there are signs that always remind you of what Leo used to be. I think that’s completely normal, especially for Barcelona fans who are coming out of a difficult period, with some challenges.”
“So, I believe the excitement that Lamine brings nowadays is very important. It’s like Leo, you know—during tough times, he stepped up for the team, and I think with Lamine, the potential is there for him to do really well at Barcelona for many years.”
The former Arsenal star also praised Yamal for some of his specific qualities:
“He is a unique talent. He’s someone you just need to let go out and play football. He will always make a difference, whether he’s under pressure or not, as he always finds the right solution—whether it’s an individual action, a one-two pass, the final pass, or keeping the play going. He’s capable of reading the game and understanding what it needs.”
“He shows signs of being a great player, a very mature one. And what I like the most is that it looks like he’s playing on the street. Everything seems so easy for him.”
There is no doubt that at least some Barcelona fans see Yamal as the next Lionel Messi, and the winger has provided them with every reason to do so.
However, although he has already shown that he can handle pressure, fans should avoid putting too many responsibilities on the €150m-rated gem as he is still only 17 years old, and has a long road ahead of him.
