Inter Milan and Argentina legend Javier Zanetti makes major comparisons between Messi and Yamal

It’s hard not to think of Lionel Messi when watching Lamine Yamal dazzle for Barcelona. The young Spaniard occupies the same position where Messi began his storied career, with a playing style that evokes memories of the Argentine’s early days. This resemblance hasn’t gone unnoticed by Inter Milan’s legendary figure and current vice president, Javier Zanetti.

Following Inter Milan’s thrilling 4-3 victory over Barcelona (7-6 aggregate) in the UEFA Champions League, Zanetti spoke with ESPN Fútbol 12 about Yamal’s immense talent, even comparing him to Messi.

“I saw him in the first leg, and he still has such a baby face. But the way he plays—it’s incredible. He has an enormous future,” Zanetti began. “At times, he’s unstoppable because you never know which way he’ll go. If you try to wait him out, he’ll punish you. You need midfielders and defenders working together to stop him. One-on-one, he’ll most likely beat you with his incredible skill and speed”.

Zanetti went on to say Yamal’s style reminds him of Messi’s early days at Barcelona. “He reminds me of Messi at his best when he was just starting out—you had no idea which direction he’d go. This kid shows great personality, always wants the ball, and knows he has the quality to play. He’s fearless,” Zanetti remarked.

Seydou Keita (L) of Sevilla fowls Lionel Messi of Barcelona during the La Liga match between Sevilla and Barcelona. (Jasper Juinen/Getty Images)

Messi acknowledges comparisons to Yamal

In an interview with Simplemente Fútbol, Lionel Messi reflected on the parallels between Yamal’s trajectory and his own. “Like how I started, he’s also playing on the right side. Maybe in a few years, he’ll be in a different role, but his skills are extraordinary. Right now, he’s already one of the best players in the world,” Messi stated.

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Messi also praised Yamal’s accomplishments. “What he’s doing is incredible—he’s already achieved so much. He’s a European champion with Spain, and at his age, that’s amazing,” Messi said, emphasizing the teenager’s meteoric rise. Highlighting Yamal’s potential, Messi noted: “He’s only 17! He’s still growing, and I’m sure he’ll continue improving and adding to his game”.

Yamal responds to Messi comparisons

For his part, Yamal has addressed the inevitable comparisons with the Barcelona legend. “I like that they compare me to the greatest player in soccer history, but I want to be myself,” Yamal told Antena 3. “Reaching Messi’s level is impossible,” he added.

Fans also remember the iconic photo of Messi holding a baby Yamal years ago—a connection the young star playfully acknowledges. “Man, he must have passed some of his powers to me,” Yamal joked in his interview.

Much like Messi, Yamal has expressed his commitment to Barcelona, saying he dreams of becoming a “legend” for the club and “never leaving.” Since his debut for Barcelona in 2023, Yamal’s journey has only just begun, but with endorsements from legends like Messi and Zanetti, his potential seems boundless.