Barcelona star Lamine Yamal shares emotional memory involving Lionel Messi and Neymar

Lamine Yamal is experiencing a meteoric rise in his career as a professional soccer player. Next week marks two years since his official debut with FC Barcelona, and in that time, he has become one of the biggest stars in the world. In this context, the winger reflected on his current status and connected it to his memories of Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr.

“When I was a kid, I used to wear Neymar jerseys, Messi jerseys, all of those players’ jerseys,” Yamal recalled in a recent interview with ESPN. “So seeing kids wearing my jersey means that I’m their inspiration, at least in soccer… It’s incredible.”

The Spanish winger remains grounded despite the success and fame, acknowledging how rare it is to be in his position at just 17 years old. “It’s something I never thought would happen so fast,” he admitted. “Thirteen-year-old kids wearing the jersey of a guy who’s only four years older than them. It’s incredible.”

However, Lamine is also aware that being a global superstar comes with sacrifices, like missing experiences that other teenagers his age are living through right now. “Of course I miss things, but I wouldn’t change anything,” he explained. “At the end of the day, seeing my little brother happy, having a wonderful childhood, that’s something that fills me with joy. Seeing the peace my mom and dad have is something I never could have imagined. My grandma calling me and telling me how well she’s doing. That’s priceless. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal

Lamine Yamal has a clear path ahead

Reflecting further on his experiences in his second year as a professional player, Lamine Yamal acknowledged that his parents’ guidance has been key to keeping him grounded. “My mom always tells me to think about all of this, that it doesn’t happen to just anyone—to go somewhere and see a kid wearing your jersey. It makes me so happy and it’s one of the things I love the most,” said the Barcelona star.

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“My parents have been my reference for everything… I think I have a lot of my dad in me on the field and a lot of my mom off the field,” said the winger. “Everything I have and everything I’ll have is thanks to them. I always say I’ll never be able to thank them enough, but I’ll try.”

Lionel Messi praises Lamine Yamal

Just as Lamine Yamal has often spoken about how important Lionel Messi was as an inspiration, the Argentine star has now returned the praise for the Spanish winger. Messi recently named Yamal as “one of the best in the world,” during an interview with Simplemente Futbol.

“It’s incredible what he’s showing, what he’s doing, and what he’s already achieved. He’s a European champion with Spain,” Leo highlighted. “He’s only 17! He’s still in a growth phase, and I think he’ll continue to improve and add more to his game.”