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RMA
AFCON 2025
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Man City's legendary manager believes that even though Yamal is a generational talent, he is no Messi.
Pep Guardiola has sent an emphatic message and apology to teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal amid his meteoric rise in European football.
Speaking to DAZN, the Man City boss and former Barcelona manager weighed in on comparisons between the 17-year-old Spanish starlet and the one player who defined his managerial career: Lionel Messi.
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“I'm really sorry but Leo, for me, there will be no one, no one, no one in the world like the Argentine. It's impossible," Guardiola was quoted to have said as per Goal.
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Yamal, who continues to dazzle fans and pundits alike with his maturity, control, and tactical flair for both club and country, has sparked whispers about becoming the ‘next Messi’ — especially as he eyes the iconic No.10 shirt at Barcelona.
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But Pep insists such expectations are not only unrealistic, but also unfair.
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14:17 - 07.06.2025
'No shortage of talent' — Cristiano Ronaldo explains how Yamal can reach GOAT level
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has hailed Spain's Lamine Yamal ahead of the Nations League final between the two nations.
Lamine’s rise but Ballon d’Or talks still premature
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Still, Guardiola has warned against the temptation to inflate his progress with premature GOAT debates.
Pep said: "It's surprising what everyone says, and it's true: you only acquire this maturity at 24, 25 years old... Sometimes it seems like a player with so much talent, it seems like you have to take a chance on every play. Every play you have to shoot a three-pointer like Curry. No. He comes here, one touch, and now I rest for three minutes. And now he comes another touch. And now I make a little drive and I pass it again. And now I'm going to win the game."
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In a subtle yet powerful endorsement, Guardiola also admitted Barça were “very lucky to have found a kid again who has a perspective”, while urging patience and perspective in nurturing the youngster’s talent.
The former La Masia graduate is poised to play in the Nations League final this Sunday as Spain takes on Portugal, a high-stakes clash that could mark a turning point in his international journey.
Many believe that should Spain clinch the trophy, Yamal’s Ballon d’Or odds could skyrocket, potentially leapfrogging the current favourite, Ousmane Dembélé.