Barcelona Sensation Lamine Yamal Aims to Achieve What Lionel Messi Never Did

During a recent interview on Spanish private television Antena 3's popular show 'El Hormiguero,' Spain's young sensation Lamine Yamal expressed his desire to stay at Barcelona for his entire career. The 17-year-old, who made his debut for the Catalan giants at just 15 years old, has quickly become a key player for the club. Yamal stated, "I hope I never leave Barcelona, I want to be a legend at Barca." His ambition and commitment to the club have already made him a fan favorite and one to watch for the future.

The winger, who turned 17 in July, played a key role for his country as Spain triumphed at Euro 2024 for a record fourth time, becoming the youngest ever footballer to play and score in the competition's history.

At Barca, he is the most exciting youth academy player, which has even earned him comparisons with another La Masia graduate Lionel Messi.

"To be compared to the best in history is incredible and that means you're doing something right but I try to be me and be remembered for myself," said Yamal.

"It will be very difficult to get to that (Messi's career achievement), so I hope I will be remembered for being Lamine Yamal," he said.

The teenager said he felt he was coping with the fame gained from his great Euro performances which included a stunning goal in the semi-final win over France.

"From a young age, at clubs like Barca they prepare you as psychologists. They have been preparing me since I was a child. I'm looking forward to the future," he said.

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"Since the European Championship, everyone is happier, people are more smiling. It was a dream."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)