Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and a global icon, has seen it all in football.

At 37, he continues to inspire on the field, but even legends know when to pass the torch.

With the 2026 World Cup likely to mark the end of his remarkable career, Messi has his eyes set on the next generation.

The question on everyone’s mind: Who will carry Messi’s legacy?

The Argentine maestro has an answer.

Speaking at an Adidas event in Germany, quizzed by renowed artist Goke Oyewo, Messi singled out 17-year-old Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal as the “present and future” of football.

Yamal, a La Masia graduate just like Messi, has been turning heads with his incredible performances for Barcelona and Spain.

Already a history-maker, Yamal boasts La Liga and European Championship titles and was recently crowned the 2024 Golden Boy. For Messi, the teenager isn’t just a prospect; he’s the heir to greatness.

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Lionel Messi singles out Lamine Yamal

When asked about who reminds him of his younger self, Messi didn’t hesitate to praise Yamal. “There’s a very good generation of young footballers who have many years ahead of them,” he said.

“If I have to choose someone because of their age and future, it’s Lamine Yamal. He’s the present and without a doubt has a huge future.”

The comparison is more than just symbolic. Both players emerged from Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy, known for producing football’s brightest stars.

While Messi’s journey saw him rise to become arguably the greatest player in history, he believes Yamal has the tools to follow in his footsteps — if he remains focused and grounded.

Yamal has already set records as the youngest player to debut and score for Barcelona in La Liga. His maturity on the field at such a young age has drawn comparisons to Messi’s early days, and fans are excited to see how far he can go.

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Does Lionel Messi still watch Barcelona? 

Messi, despite playing for Inter Miami, keeps close tabs on his former club.

He expressed his hopes for Barcelona’s continued success, saying, “I’d love to see Barcelona winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League again.”

With young talents like Yamal leading the charge, the future looks promising for the Catalan giants.

Messi’s endorsement has only added to the excitement surrounding the teenager, and the world will be watching as Yamal strives to live up to the expectations.