Raphinha plays down Lamine Yamal comparisons to Lionel Messi - and instead suggests other Barcelona legend he reminds him of

Barcelona’s resurgence in the 2024-25 season has thrilled fans and rivals alike, with their powerful offensive displays leading to a strong start in La Liga. Key to this success has been the attacking trio of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. While Lewandowski has impressed with a league-leading 14 goals, it’s Yamal’s performances alongside him that has captured attention and inspired comparisons to Barcelona legends of the past.

At just 17 years old, Yamal has swiftly become one of Barcelona’s most talked-about players. Graduating from the famed La Masia academy, his technical skills and flair have invited inevitable comparisons to Messi, another La Masia alumnus who redefined football with his iconic Barcelona career. Like Messi, Yamal has shown incredible composure and ball control, qualities that have made him a standout talent despite his young age.

In an interview with El Pais, Raphinha said of Yamal: "I see him more like Neymar – the dribbling, how fast he thinks to dribble. When you think you can steal the ball from him, he does something you’ve never seen in your life."

The comparison comes at a time when Raphinha himself has risen to prominence within the Barcelona squad. After a somewhat peripheral role under previous manager Xavi, Raphinha has flourished this season under the leadership of Hansi Flick. The Brazilian’s transition to a more central role has been marked by consistent performances, as evidenced by his tally of 10 goals and seven assists in 14 games.

Despite his remarkable form, Raphinha remains humble, stating that he doesn’t view himself as a primary figure. "I don’t feel like a protagonist," he said. "I do know that I’m having a good season, but the whole team is the protagonist. If we score 10 goals, but concede 10, the game ends in a draw. When everyone is on form, it is natural for strikers to excel more, they are the ones who score goals. In my opinion, they are all protagonists."

Raphinha’s improved form and Yamal’s rapid development come at an ideal time, with Barcelona set to face Espanyol in the upcoming Catalan derby on November 3.