NEW DELHI: Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal has distanced himself from any comparisons to Lionel Messi as he prepares for the Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan on Wednesday.
The 17-year-old has established himself as a crucial player on the right wing, the position previously held by Barcelona’s record goalscorer Messi, with both being products of the La Masia academy.
The last time Barcelona reached the Champions League final was in 2015 with Messi occupying the right-wing position, and now Yamal aims to guide the Catalans back to the prestigious final.
“I don’t compare myself to him, because I don’t compare myself to anyone — and much less with Messi,” Yamal told reporters Tuesday.
“We are thinking about improving ourselves, every day, and on being better on the next day.
“So I don’t think the comparison makes sense, with Messi even less — I’m going to enjoy myself, and be myself.”
The young talent expressed his belief that the Argentine footballer stands as the greatest in history.
“I admire him obviously, as the best player in history, but I don’t compare myself to him,” he reiterated.
A milestone awaits Yamal as he is expected to make his 100th appearance for Barcelona when they face Inter Milan on Wednesday at the Olympic Stadium.
Yamal’s recent contribution included two assists in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey final victory against Real Madrid on Saturday, keeping their hopes alive for a potential quadruple this season.
“I’m really excited, it’s my first (European) semi-final, and for many others in the team too,” added Yamal, expressing his confidence before the match.
“I’ve not had any fear, but I have motivation ahead of the game — I think the butterflies in your stomach are good, all of us players have them.
“But fear… I left fear in the park in Mataro (Yamal’s hometown) a long time ago.”
