Lamine Yamal was asked about the iconic picture of him as a baby with Lionel Messi, and how he feels about possibly facing his idol in the FIFA World Cup final.
In 2007, Lionel Messi partnered with UNICEF for a photoshoot that saw him giving a young baby a bath. 20 years later, that baby is eyeing a World Cup final showdown with Messi.
Lamine Yamal is considered by many to be the heir apparent to Lionel Messi at FC Barcelona. But that doesn’t mean he’s afraid to face his idol on the biggest stage in world football.
Lamine Yamal wants to face Lionel Messi in the FIFA World Cup final
Speaking to DAZN Spain ahead of Spain’s semi-final fixture against France, Lamine Yamal was asked about the famous picture of him as a baby with Lionel Messi.
Yamal, who was celebrating his 19th birthday yesterday, joked both he and Messi have grown since then, and wants to see his idol in the FIFA World Cup final.
“Yes, I’ve grown a little, and I think Leo has too. I hope it happens. I’d love to face Messi in a World Cup final.”
Yamal, much like Messi, is a left-footed right winger for FC Barcelona who wore both #19 and #10 for the team. So the comparisons between the two are natural.
The chance to see two of the best players in their team’s history facing off in the biggest game in world football would be a dream for FC Barcelona fans.
Lamine Yamal knows he must step up against France
Speaking in his pre-game press conference ahead of today’s game, Lamine Yamal admitted that he hasn’t been playing at his best at the FIFA World Cup.
The reigning Kopa trophy winner admitted that his recent injury has left him short of his usual level, but that is no excuse for him to deliver.
For Lamine Yamal, delivering his best performance of the tournament in the team’s biggest game so far would be a massive achievement.
Of course, the youngster is no stranger to big-game scenarios against France, having put on stellar performances against them in the semi-finals of the 2024 Euros and 2025 Nations League.
So one cannot possibly rule out him stepping up and delivering for Spain against France yet again, especially with the stakes at hand.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
