Barcelona wonderkid likened to Messi, Maradona by German legend after dazzling at Euros | OneFootball

In recent weeks, Lamine Yamal has seen no shortage of praise coming in from the biggest personalities in Europe.

Earlier in the month, David Villa called him a special player while a host of his national teammates highlighted the talent he possesses.

However, a recent statement by German football legend Lothar Matthaus might be the biggest praise Yamal has received, as of yet.

Matthaus compares Yamal to Messi, Maradona

Comparing the 16-year-old winger to the likes of Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, Matthäus said (h/t Mundo Deportivo), “Maradona, Messi and now Yamal or Musiala.”

Matthaus’ comments come after Yamal’s dazzling displays in Euro 2024. Starting against Croatia and Italy, the 16-year-old wonderkid put in eye-catching performances.

More recently, he came on from the bench against Albania and impressed yet again.

The next big thing in European football. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Yamal going places

This isn’t just media hype; Yamal’s performances for both club and country have indeed turned heads. He was the player who saw the highest valuation increase during the 2023/24 campaign after he racked up 17 goals in all competitions.

In his ten appearances for La Roja, the 16-year-old has racked up two goals and five assists. One of his assists came in the opening Euro 2024 game against Croatia, a feat that helped him become the youngest player to ever register an assist in the competition’s history.

For Barcelona fans, this is a cause for immense excitement. Having secured Yamal’s future at the club, the Catalans now possess a player Matthäus believes can be a key component of a title-winning team.

Yamal’s emergence alongside the likes of Pedri, Gavi and Pau Cubarsi signifies a new era for Barcelona. Whether or not new coach Hansi Flick can aptly lead this new generation remains to be seen.