The former Barcelona legend, now a teammate of Messi’s in Miami, insists the young phenom is special but operates on a different plane than the Argentine maestro.
In a candid interview that will resonate with Barcelona fans, club legend Jordi Alba has directly addressed the growing trend of comparing teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to Lionel Messi. His verdict was unequivocal: there is no comparison.
Speaking on the Spanish program El Larguero, Alba, who now shares the pitch with Messi at Inter Miami, was clear in his assessment. “Comparing Lamine with Leo… there’s no comparison,” the former left-back stated. “Leo Messi has no rival in my opinion.”
While eager to temper the sky-high expectations on the 18-year-old, Alba was quick to praise the talent within the current Barcelona squad. He highlighted the importance of Hansi Flick’s entire group, naming established stars like Frenkie de Jong and Pedri, while still acknowledging that Lamine is “a great player.”
The conversation also turned to Messi’s emotional connection to the club. When asked about the recent photo of Messi secretly visiting the Spotify Camp Nou, Alba joked, “We all have the key to the stadium, especially those of us who have spent many years playing there,” though he claimed he was unaware of the photo being taken.
Reflecting on Messi’s abrupt departure from Barcelona in 2021, Alba admitted, “I suppose it wasn’t the best departure or the one he would have liked.” However, he remains confident that his former teammate will one day receive the send-off he deserves. “I think he will be honoured if Leo wants it, and I hope he will be. It will be a very nice party.”
As for the idea of renaming the stadium after the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Alba was more cautious, suggesting the historic name should remain. “I think Camp Nou is fine.”
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