Lionel Messi has officially weighed in on the meteoric rise of Lamine Yamal, naming the Barcelona teenager as his natural successor. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner believes the La Masia graduate is already operating at a level that puts him above the rest of the pack in world football.

Lionel Messi believes that FC Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal is the standout talent of the new generation coming after himself and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Barcelona loanee Ansu Fati has opened up on his admiration for Lamine Yamal while reflecting on his impressive spell at Monaco. The forward, who has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, appears to have rediscovered his best form in Ligue 1 and is now looking ahead to a pivotal summer regarding his future at Camp Nou.

The spectacular rise of Lamine Yamal at Barcelona has amazed the footballing world, but his success is no surprise to those who nurtured his talent at La Masia. Former Blaugrana striker Javier Saviola reveals the exact moment youth coaches realised they had a generational talent, comparing the 2024 Golden Boy winner's unique abilities to those of a young Lionel Messi.

Luis de la Fuente has hailed the incredible work ethic of Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal as the teenager battles to be fit for the 2026 World Cup. Despite being sidelined for the remainder of the domestic season, the Spain manager is confident that the winger will return in time to make a big impact on the international stage.