‘Unique talent’ - Lamine Yamal earns Lionel Messi-esque praise from Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta & is backed to deliver more trophies for La Liga giants

Having stepped out of the same La Masia academy system as eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi, comparisons between Yamal and an Argentine icon have never been far away. He has attempted to remove himself from that discussion on a regular basis.

Yamal, at 17 years of age, has set about becoming a global superstar in his own right. Records have tumbled around the youngster as he has landed La Liga, European Championship and Golden Boy honours.

He has also committed to a new lucrative contract in Catalunya that is due to take him through to 2031, with those terms officially kicking in when he turns 18 on July 13. Iniesta believes that Yamal will help to deliver more major silverware at Camp Nou.

The legendary midfielder told reporters in Munich ahead of the 2025 Champions League final of seeing Yamal agree fresh terms: “It’s fantastic news for Barca fans that he can be there. I hope he can maintain that level and continue to improve year after year because he truly is a unique talent. I hope he can bring Barca a lot of joy.

“It’s been a fantastic season, winning those two titles, reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League and on the verge of reaching the final. And above all, the feeling that the team transmits, that it’s a young team with a lot of experience at the same time. If they continue on this path, I think they’ll be very close to winning titles every year.”

Yamal is currently readying himself for UEFA Nations League finals duty with Spain. He will then get to take in a well-earned summer break as Barcelona seek to bring in more superstar performers alongside him during the next transfer window.