
The Digest:
In an interview with CBS, Barcelona’s 18-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal expressed deep respect for Lionel Messi but firmly stated his desire to carve his own legacy, declaring, “I don’t want to be him.”
Key Points:
- Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal says he does not want to be the next Lionel Messi.
- The 18-year-old called Messi “the best in history” but stressed the need for his own path.
- He expressed a wish for his football to improve the days of fans watching him.
- Yamal credits his family and friends for keeping him grounded under the global spotlight.
- He feels no pressure, seeing football as a source of joy and emotional expression.
- The Spanish international is hailed as one of Europe’s most exciting prospects.
- He is set to face Messi for the first time in the 2026 Finalissima in Qatar.
Sources: CBS Interview via Vanguard.