Just like Ronaldinho and Messi' - ex-Barcelona star praises youngster Lamine Yamal

Lamine Yamal on his debut for Spain | X/@SEfutbol

Just like Ronaldinho and Messi' - ex-Barcelona star praises youngster Lamine Yamal

Ayoola Kelechi 23:44 - 14.10.2023

The former Barcelona star believes Yamal could reach the heights of Messi and Ronaldinho if he keeps up his impressive start

Former Barcelona defender Rafa Marquez has spoken highly of the Blaugrana’s highly-rated youngster, Lamine Yamal, comparing his talent to that of two footballing greats. 

Yamal impresses Barcelona icon

Marquez represented Barcelona for seven years between 2003 and 2010, playing alongside some fantastic players, including Brazilian sensation Ronaldinho, and Argentine club legend Lionel Messi. 

The former Mexico international has since hung up his boots in favour of management and is currently the coach of Barcelona’s B team, where he encountered a talent whom he believes can be as good as his former teammates. 

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal in action against Cadiz | Imago
Barcelona's Lamine Yamal in action against Cadiz | Imago

Barcelona’s 16-year-old prodigy, Lamine Yamal, played only three games with Marquez’ Barcelona B side before being made a member of the first team, and the former defender has spoken of the Spain international’s enormous potential. 

Marquez talks compares Yamal to Barcelona greats

Marquez was quoted by Mundo Deportivo as saying, “He [Yamal] belongs to a group of gifted boys who have innate talent, who no matter how old they are, can compete in any category and make a difference. 

Jules Kounde(L) and Lamine Yamal playing for Barcelona in a LaLiga EA Sports match| Photo Credit: IMAGO
Jules Kounde(L) and Lamine Yamal playing for Barcelona in a LaLiga EA Sports match| Photo Credit: IMAGO

“Ronaldinho, Messi… Lamine can be the next. He has all the qualities. Obviously we have to take care of his development because he is still a child.”

Yamal has broken several records at club and country level, becoming the youngest player to play for both Barcelona and Spain, as well as the youngest player to score for La Roja, so the praise from Marquez is not especially strange. 

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