Yamal, who is just 18 years old, currently wears Messi’s iconic number 10 jersey at Barcelona.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Spain and Barcelona winger, Lamine Yamal, has disclosed that Argentina captain, Lionel Messi, gave him a word of encouragement at the end of the 2026 World Cup final on Sunday.
He made this known after Ferran Torres’ extra-time goal gave La Roja a 1-0 win over Lionel Scaloni’s side in a game played in New Jersey.
Despite the fiery encounter, Messi and Yamal shared a moving hug on the pitch before the trophy was eventually handed to Spain.
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Speaking about the gesture and the Argentine legend after the match, Yamal said via Marca: “He’s the greatest player in history and someone I’ve always looked up to.
“After the match, I wanted to show him my respect. He told me to keep following my path and that the future belongs to our generation.
“Those words are worth as much as the gold medal hanging around my neck.”
