Former Real Madrid star compares Barcelona sensation to Messi, Ronaldo – “Mbappe is closer” | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal has once again been in focus at Barcelona, especially after Spain manager Luis de la Fuente’s statement.

The Spanish national team manager bluntly praised the Barcelona attacker, comparing him to footballing legends Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and even Diego Maradona.

“Lamine can be an epoch-making player like Messi, Maradona or Cristiano Ronaldo,” said the Spaniard.

In a recent interaction with Diario AS, former Real Madrid footballer Guti was asked about de la Fuente’s comparison and whether or not it was a valid opinion.

Guti on de la Fuente’s comments on Yamal

The Real Madrid legend was quick to pump the brakes on the lofty expectations placed on the 18-year-old’s shoulders.

Yamal remains one of Spain’s most important players. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

While acknowledging the youngster’s immense talent, Guti highlighted the sheer consistency required to sit at the table of the big three.

“Wow. I see him as a fantastic player and a potential Ballon d’Or winner, but you’re talking about three players who are the best in the world,” Guti stated.

He elaborated on the Herculean feats of the legends mentioned: “Maradona won the World Cup in Mexico without having a great team, and Messi and Cristiano won by scoring 50 goals over ten years. That’s going to be very difficult for just anyone to achieve.”

When pressed on who might be the heir apparent, Guti looked to Madrid’s current talisman instead: “I see Kylian Mbappe as closer to achieving it than Lamine.”

Despite the scepticism from Guti, though, Lamine Yamal continues to be the decisive factor for Hansi Flick’s side in the 2025/26 campaign.

While scoring 50 goals a season may be a distant target, Lamine is proving he is the main offensive reference for Barcelona, and things can only improve going forward, especially now that the attacking trident is back together.