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Ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan, Barcelona’s young star Lamine Yamal emphasised his focus on developing his own game rather than inviting comparisons to club legend Lionel Messi.
The 17-year-old winger has become a key player on Barcelona’s right flank, a position where Messi famously starred after graduating from the same La Masia academy.
Barcelona last reached the Champions League final in 2015 with Messi operating on the right, and Yamal hopes to help the Catalan giants return to that stage this season.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Yamal explicitly stated he does not compare himself to anyone, especially not Messi.
He stressed his focus is on daily improvement and being better each day, deeming the comparison to Messi as nonsensical. Instead, Yamal said he intends to enjoy his style of play and be himself on the pitch.
While acknowledging Messi as the greatest player in history and someone he admires, Yamal reiterated that he does not draw parallels between them.
If Yamal plays against Inter Milan at the Olympic Stadium as expected, it will mark his 100th appearance for Barcelona across all competitions.
Fresh off Barcelona’s 3-2 Copa del Rey final victory over Real Madrid on Saturday, where Yamal provided two assists, the team is aiming for a potential quadruple this season.
Yamal expressed his excitement for his first European semi-final, a sentiment shared by many in the squad, and stated he feels motivated rather than nervous for the game. He playfully declared that he had overcome fear long ago.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick believes the positive momentum from their Copa del Rey win against Madrid can benefit the team in the Champions League.
He noted the team’s focus and the importance of the victory for creating positive energy. However, Flick acknowledged the hard work required to reach the final and recognised Inter Milan’s strong motivation, particularly for their experienced players.
Flick also confirmed that Wojciech Szczesny would continue as Barcelona’s goalkeeper in the Champions League, despite Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s return from injury.
Regarding Inter Milan’s recent losing streak, Flick dismissed its significance, emphasising that Champions League semi-finals are entirely different encounters where every player gives their utmost effort.
