Austria coach Ralf Rangnick makes huge claim about Lamine Yamal: ‘Could reach Messi’s level’ | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal’s impact at the World Cup continues to attract attention from across the football world, and the Barcelona teenager has now received praise that few young players ever hear.

Following Spain’s commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, Austria manager Ralf Rangnick singled out the 18-year-old as one of the game’s brightest emerging stars, even suggesting that he possesses the potential to reach levels associated with Lionel Messi.

The comments came ahead of Austria’s clash against Argentina, with Rangnick discussing a possible future meeting with Spain in the knockout stages and explaining why Luis de la Fuente’s side are among the teams nobody wants to face.

Rangnick identifies Yamal as Spain’s standout talent

Spain have once again established themselves as one of the strongest teams at the World Cup, and Rangnick made no secret of his admiration for the European giants.

When discussing a possible encounter with La Roja later in the tournament, the Austrian coach admitted that Spain would be one of the most difficult opponents available.

Lamine Yamal scored the opening goal for Spain. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

“Spain is not an opponent anyone would want to face,” he began, as per Mundo Deportivo.

The experienced manager then shifted the focus towards the Barcelona winger, who he believes has the talent to become one of football’s defining figures.

“They are also one of the nations that have shaped the history of football in recent years and, what’s more, they have Lamine Yamal, one of the absolute superstars of the future. 

“I imagine that if he stays fit and keeps his feet on the ground, he could reach a level similar to that of Lionel Messi,” he added.

Yamal shines in Spain’s win over Saudi Arabia

The praise came less than 24 hours after another influential display from the Barcelona attacker.

Rangnick has tipped Yamal to reach Messi’s potential. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Yamal started on the right flank as Spain swept aside Saudi Arabia and needed little time to leave his mark on the game. 

The teenager opened the scoring and consistently looked dangerous whenever he found space in the final third.

His willingness to attack defenders caused problems throughout the first half. 

While not every pass or shot found its target, he remained one of Spain’s most unpredictable attacking outlets and regularly forced the opposition onto the back foot.

With Spain comfortably in control after the interval, the coaching staff opted to withdraw him and manage his minutes for the upcoming match against Uruguay.