Lamine Yamal responds to Lionel Messi comparisons: ‘I hope I can follow his footsteps’ | OneFootball

It was meant to be a night celebrating the world’s finest athletes, but in many ways, Lamine Yamal made it his own. 

The Barcelona forward was one of the standout names at the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards.

At just 18, Yamal walked away with the World’s Young Sportsman of the Year award, a moment that felt significant not just for him, but for Barcelona’s future. 

Receiving the prize from Brazilian legend Cafu, the youngster looked composed, almost unfazed by the scale of the occasion.

Speaking to the media after the ceremony, Yamal reflected on the weight that comes with his growing influence. 

Instead of shying away from it, he embraced it with a level of awareness rarely seen at his age.

“It’s hard to realise that it’s a responsibility and you can’t make mistakes because you’re a role model for many children, but I take it as a positive thing. 

“That’s why whenever I send out a message, I try to do so meaningfully and to help more people. 

“Keeping this in mind, I’ll make mistakes sometimes, but I’m 18 years old,” said the Barça player.

On comparisons with Messi

Naturally, conversations around Yamal often drift towards comparisons and influences, and he did not hesitate when asked about his biggest inspiration. 

Lamine Yamal won the Laureus World Young Sportsperson of the Year Award. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)

The teenager pointed straight towards Lionel Messi, but not in a superficial way.

“When you realise that an athlete isn’t just a legend in his sport but in every other sport as well, it’s because he’s the best. 

“Messi is an example. He’s the best football player in history and also the best athlete. For me, he’s not just another idol. 

“Everyone respects him for everything he’s done, for the example he sets through everything he’s done, and hopefully I can follow in his footsteps,” he said.

Connection with the fans

Off the pitch, Yamal is part of a new generation redefining how footballers connect with fans. He spoke openly about that shift and his comfort within it.

“We’re a different generation; it’s not the same kind of football anymore. 

“People are also entertained by what you do off the field, and I like this change. I like showing it off, too,” he said.

Looking ahead, his focus is already drifting towards the biggest stage of all. The upcoming World Cup clearly holds a special place in his ambitions.

“I’m really excited. I’ve dreamed since I was a kid of being at a World Cup, of seeing my mom in the stands, of representing the national team… those two months will fly by, and obviously I hope we come out champions.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo