Barcelona president Joan Laporta has finally addressed the ongoing comparisons between rising star Lamine Yamal and club icon Lionel Messi. While both players have earned praise for their talent and creativity on the ball, Laporta believes there is no need to mount pressure on Yamal by drawing direct lines between him and the club’s greatest-ever player.
Speaking during an interview on CNN, Laporta made it clear that although comparisons are normal in football, the truth remains that Messi and Yamal are two completely different players with their own journeys, personalities and playing styles.
According to Laporta, Lionel Messi has already cemented his place as one of the greatest footballers the world has ever seen. He acknowledged the Argentine’s legendary contribution to Barcelona but also pointed out that Yamal is creating his own legacy in a different era. The Barcelona chief noted that Yamal, in his current position, is already the best in the world at what he does.
In his words, “Lamine Yamal is Lamine Yamal. Leo Messi was Leo Messi. Leo Messi has been the best player in the world, and Lamine, I think that in his position nowadays, is the best player in the world.”
Laporta’s comments come at a time when fans and media have been drawing heavy comparisons between the young Spaniard and Messi. Yamal’s brilliant performances for both club and country have earned him praise, and many believe he is the future of Barcelona. His composure on the ball, vision, and ability to impact big games at such a young age have drawn admiration from across the football world.
As a show of confidence and trust, Barcelona handed Yamal the number 10 jersey, the same shirt that Messi wore during his golden years at the club. The number had remained symbolic at the Camp Nou, and giving it to Yamal sent a strong message about the club’s belief in the teenager’s potential.
Yamal’s new contract, which was signed recently, will keep him at Barcelona until 2031. The long-term deal reflects the club’s desire to build the future of the team around young, homegrown talents like him. It also shows the level of investment being made to secure Yamal’s services amid rising interest from top clubs around Europe.
Despite the hype, Laporta is urging fans to allow Yamal to grow at his own pace without the pressure of being labeled the next Messi. He reminded the football community that greatness cannot be duplicated or rushed, and every player deserves the chance to write his own story.
As the new LaLiga season approaches, all eyes will be on Yamal to see how he handles expectations and continues his development. But one thing is clear from Laporta’s remarks — Barcelona is proud of both Messi’s legendary past and Yamal’s promising future, and the two should not be weighed against each other.
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