Barcelona’s young talent Lamine Yamal has made it clear that he has no intention of comparing himself to Lionel Messi, despite occupying the same right-wing position once dominated by the legendary Argentine. Speaking ahead of a crucial Champions League semi-final, the 17-year-old emphasized his individual path and ambitions.
“I don’t compare myself to anyone, especially not Messi,” Yamal said during Tuesday’s press conference. He described the World Cup winner as “the greatest of all time” and stressed his desire to remain true to his own playing style, stating, “I just want to enjoy and be myself.”
Yamal, a product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy like Messi, will play a key role in the attack as his team prepares for their biggest European match in years. The teenager, who already boasts a European Championship win with Spain, is set to reach a milestone of 100 matches for Barcelona if he features against Inter Milan on Wednesday.
Barcelona prepare for biggest european test in years
Barcelona’s semi-final clash with Inter Milan on Wednesday marks their return to this stage of the Champions League for the first time since 2019. The Catalan club last reached the final in 2015, during an era when Messi led the frontline to continental glory.
The opening leg will take place at the Nou Camp, with no disruption expected despite recent national power issues in Spain. UEFA confirmed there are no current concerns about the match proceeding as scheduled.
Yamal enters the tie in fine form, having contributed two assists in Barcelona’s 3-2 Copa del Rey final triumph over Real Madrid on Saturday. The victory ended a memorable weekend and boosted morale ahead of the European test.
Coach Hansi Flick believes that beating Madrid will serve as a morale booster, noting the emotional lift the team experienced following the final whistle. “That win was very important,” he said. “It gives us good energy going into this game.”
Flick also confirmed that Wojciech Szczesny will remain between the posts, even though regular goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is now available after a lengthy injury absence.
