Scaloni Weighs In on Lamine Yamal-Lionel Messi Comparisons
Argentina’s national team manager, Lionel Scaloni, has shared his thoughts on the rising comparisons between Barcelona’s young talent, Lamine Yamal, and the legendary Lionel Messi. Yamal, the 17-year-old Spanish winger, has drawn parallels to Messi due to his impressive performances for Barcelona, leading many to see him as the club’s next superstar.
With an impressive tally of 13 goals and 17 assists this season, Yamal’s development at Barcelona has been remarkable for his age. The comparisons to Messi, even including an old photo of Messi bathing a baby that is rumored to be Yamal , have become increasingly prevalent in football discussions.
Ahead of Argentina’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Brazil, Scaloni was asked about Yamal. While acknowledging Yamal’s exceptional talent and potential, Scaloni was hesitant to draw direct comparisons to a young Messi.
Scaloni stated (as reported by BeIn Sports):
- Yamal’s Present Status: “Lamine Yamal is possibly one of the best in the world today.”
- Messi’s Legacy: “We know what Leo Messi means for the world of football…”
- Comparison Hesitation: “…but Yamal is doing very well in Spain. I don’t feel qualified to compare their beginnings.”
Yamal recently showcased his skill on the international stage, scoring a remarkable goal for Spain in a UEFA Nations League match against the Netherlands. Despite having parents from different national backgrounds, Yamal chose to represent Spain, unlike Messi, and is now a key figure for the Spanish national team, known as La Roja.
Football fans may soon witness a direct encounter between Messi and Yamal when Argentina and Spain potentially clash in the Finalissima. This match could set the stage for a fascinating showdown between Barcelona’s icon of the past and its potential future star.
Former Brazil Star Criticizes Raphinha, Cites Messi’s Example
In related news, former Brazilian international Paulo Silas has publicly criticized Barcelona’s Raphinha for comments made about the Argentina national team before their World Cup qualifier match. Raphinha’s alleged disrespectful remarks directed at the Argentine squad have stirred controversy.
Silas, in an interview with Radio La Red, addressed the seriousness of Raphinha’s comments, labeling them as ‘disrespectful.’ He pointed to Lionel Messi’s respectful conduct after Argentina’s Copa America 2021 victory in Brazil as an example of proper sportsmanship.
Silas commented (via Goal):
“It was disrespectful of that kid. He should have seen Messi here when he won the Copa America and didn’t let his team-mates sing against Brazil because of the friendship he has with Neymar and the respect.”
Interestingly, Lionel Messi was not expected to play for Argentina in the mentioned qualifier against Brazil, while Raphinha was anticipated to play a significant role for the Brazilian team, known as Selecao. Argentina, under Scaloni’s guidance, currently leads the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings as they aim for a spot in the Mundial.
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