Yamal: Everyone knows who Messi is, but no one expected him to play at this level

Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old winger for Spain, has shared his admiration for Lionel Messi's performances at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking before the quarterfinal clash with Belgium on July 10, Yamal said he never expected the Argentine to maintain such an elite level. "Everyone knows who Messi is, but no one expected him to play at this high level. I'm very happy for him," Yamal stated. The Barcelona prodigy also paid tribute to Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo. "I'm happy for Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo as well. They shaped the childhood of everyone who's playing now. Whatever good happens to them is good for me as well," he added. Yamal, who has become a key figure for La Roja, also revealed his personal ambition: "If I reach the final, I want to win it." Spain and Belgium will battle for a semifinal spot on July 10.