‘Already one of the best in the world’ – Lionel Messi hails Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal | OneFootball

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi has this week opened up on his appreciation for the talents of current Blaugrana youngster Lamine Yamal.

Wide-man Lamine has for his part of course spent the season to date continuing to build on his reputation as world football’s standout up-and-coming talent.

Taking his production in the final third to a new level altogether, the Spaniard, still just 17, has directly contributed to a hefty 35 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions.

With such remarkable output at such a young age, though, comes inevitable comparisons with some of the game’s all-time greats.

One in particular pushed by the media in Spain is that between Lamine and Barcelona icon Lionel Messi, who also burst onto the scene at a young age.

Safe to say, then, that all of a Blaugrana persuasion will no doubt be interested to hear of the latter this week speaking out on Lamine’s talents.

During an interview with Simplemente Futbol, as cited by Fabrizio Romano, Lionel Messi had the following to say when drawn on a player whom many have already labelled his successor at the Camp Nou:

“It’s impressive what Lamine Yamal shows… he’s already been a Euro champion with Spain. He’s still only 17, he’s in a growth process, and he’ll continue to grow as a player and add things to his game, just like I did. He has incredible qualities and he’s already one of the best players in the world.”

Conor Laird – GSFN