Yamal’s performance has been nothing short of incredible – and it must not be underrated
Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal is on the brink of equalling and possibly surpassing a remarkable record set by Lionel Messi in 2020.
In the 2019/2020 season, Messi contributed 27 assists to Barcelona’s campaign. It was the most any player had provided for the club in 10 years. And of course the Argentine magician did it. It encapsulated everything he had been for the club, been for the world, one of his last hurrahs before he left the Nou Camp in August 2021.
But at just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal is redefining what it means to be a football prodigy. He is currently tallying 24 assists across all competitions for Barcelona this season, and needs just four more to eclipse Messi’s record.
This incredible achievement is better appreciated when you consider that at Yamal’s age, Messi had only one goal for the Barcelona senior team, and of course no assists.
Since making his senior debut for Barcelona at 15, Yamal has contributed over 21 goals and 33 assists. He has a guaranteed place in the club’s starting lineup. He has earned accolades on the international stage. Notably, he was named the Young Player of the Tournament after leading Spain to victory at the Euros in 2024, becoming the youngest player to feature in a Euro final and topping the assist charts for the tournament.
When asked about his comparisons to Messi, the teenage sensation remained unfazed, exhibiting maturity in his response equal to his contributions on the pitch.
“I don’t compare myself with him,” he told reporters. “I don’t want to compare me with anyone, and even less with Messi. That’s something I leave to you.”
With several matches still remaining in the season, including crucial fixtures in La Liga and the Champions League, Yamal has ample opportunity to surpass Messi’s assist record. This must not be underrated.
“In the end, I only try to be better than yesterday,” he said. “I admire Messi a lot, so I don’t want to compare myself with the best player in football’s history. I still haven’t spoken with him in person.”
