Lamine Yamal names two football icons he doesn’t want to be better than

Barcelona winger, Lamine Yamal has named two football icons he does not want to be better than in his career.

Speaking to L’Équipe ahead of Spain’s Nations League clash with England on Saturday, Yamal said, “I don’t want to be better than Pelé or Messi.

“I want to be Lamine Yamal and be remembered as Lamine Yamal.”

Yamal has been a revelation since breaking into Barcelona’s first team in 2023 under former manager Xavi.

The 19-year-old has won several trophies, including LaLiga, the UEFA European Championship (Euro 2024), and the 2026 World Cup.

The Spain international finished second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or behind winner Ousmane Dembélé, and he is currently among the top contenders to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.