Lamine Yamal is breaking records for fun at age 17, but is it enough? He has been told to learn from Lionel Messi to reach

Barcelona forward, Lamine Yamal, has been encouraged to adopt key traits from Lionel Messi to reach his full potential.

Since making his professional against Real Betis in 2023, Yamal’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric.

Lamine Yamal has been urged to emulate one of Lionel Messi’s enviable abilities to reach his full potential. Photos by Quality Sport Images and Denis Doyle.
Source: UGC

The La Masia product, who has been shattering records with ease, was Barca’s standout performer in what was a challenging, trophyless season for the club.

According to UEFA, Yamal further cemented his reputation by leading Spain to their fourth European Championship title this summer, where he earned the Young Player of the Tournament award for his exceptional performances.

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At just 17 years old, Lamine is already regarded as one of football’s brightest talents, with the world at his feet.

However, to truly become a global superstar, there are still areas of his game that need refinement.

The important Messi quality Lamine Yamal needs to copy

Former La Masia coach Oscar Lopez has pinpointed specific qualities of Messi’s game that he believes Yamal should adopt.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Lopez highlighted Messi’s extraordinary ability to control the tempo and rhythm of matches, a skill that set the Argentine apart from his peers.

“One of Messi’s greatest strengths was his ability to orchestrate the team,” Lopez explained, as cited by Tribuna.

“He could dictate play, whether from a deeper midfield role or cutting in from the right wing.

“Messi knew exactly when to take charge, accelerate the game, or step in when the team was struggling, saying, ‘I’m here, and I’m going to decide this match.’

Lopez emphasised that while Yamal has shown incredible promise, he still needs to develop this aspect of his game.

“That level of game management is something Lamine is still working on, but with time, I’m confident he will master it,” the 44-year-old concluded.

Lamine Yamal draws inspiration from Messi

In a related report, TUKO.co.ke reported that Lamine Yamal has already drawn inspiration from Messi.

The Euro 2024 winner has chosen the No. 19 jersey as his new shirt number for the upcoming season, a nod to Messi, who wore the same number during his early years at Camp Nou.