Paulo Dybala praises Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, hints at Lionel Messi comparison

Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has broken several records during his short career, including winning two La Liga titles at just 17. While he continues to add trophies to his cabinet, many stars in the soccer world have praised his talent. One of the latest is Roma and Argentina star Paulo Dybala, who also hinted at comparisons with Lionel Messi.

“I love Lamine Yamal, he’s a player I really like. He’s a special player and different from most players we see today. He has a unique ability. He has an incredible future ahead of him, so let’s hope he keeps entertaining us,” he told journalist Gastón Edul in a TikTok video.

Asked if he had seen players that young be so impactful, Dybala, who is still recovering from surgery on his thigh, hinted at Messi: “Yes, I was a kid, but I think there was one… you know who I’m talking about,” with Edul nodding in agreement.

Since his breakthrough with Barcelona, Yamal has been constantly compared to Messi. However, the Spaniard began his professional career earlier than the Argentine and has already collected five major trophies, including a European Championship and a Copa del Rey.

Lionel Messi and Paulo Dyabala (Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

While Messi didn’t win his first major trophy until he was 18, he went on to become the most decorated player in Barcelona’s history, with 35 titles in the club, including ten La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.

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Messi has given his stamp of approval to Lamine Yamal

The Inter Miami star is also aware of the comparisons and has made it clear he appreciates Yamal’s talent. In an interview with ESPN, Messi called Yamal “impressive” and said he still has room to grow.

“He is already a champion. You see him now and it’s like he keeps growing and becoming a bit bolder. At first, it was like he had to pass the ball to someone else, to Lewandowski, for example. That’s normal, he’s still only 17, right? He’s in a process of growth too, and I think he’s going to develop even more as a player and keep adding things to his game,” he said.

“Just like I started, he also began playing on the right. Maybe in a few years, he’ll end up playing differently too. But there’s no doubt he has incredible talent, and right now, he’s already one of the best in the world,” he added.