Hours before the match against Belgium in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, Lamine Yamal shared some highlights in an interview with the Spanish media Mundo Deportivo. One of them features Lionel Messi, the undisputed star of the Argentine National Team in the tournament, whom he did not hesitate to praise.
When asked about the performance of the Argentine captain, the young player acknowledged that he is still surprising him even after all that Messi has achieved in his career. "Incredible. Everyone knows who Messi is, but no one expected the high level he is showing. I'm very happy for him. I'm happy for Neymar and for Cristiano. They have marked the childhood of all of us who are playing now. Everything good that happens to them will be good for me", he commented.
However, he issued a warning in case they meet in the World Cup final: "That said, if I reach the final, I want to win it".
His desire for Julián Álvarez to join Barcelona
In another part of the conversation, Yamal was also asked about Julián Álvarez, one of the names that is most frequently mentioned as a potential reinforcement for Barcelona next season. Far from dodging the topic, the forward made it clear that he would gladly welcome the Argentine striker.
"Everyone knows he is a top player, one that everyone wants to have. I already said it: we have our arms wide open and, if he comes, we will all be very happy. I think he is a player that fits well with Barça's style. I have no idea how the situation is, but I hope so", he stated.
He has not yet shown all his potential
Personally, the young star admitted that he arrived at the World Cup hampered by an injury he suffered at the end of April, which caused him to lose competitive rhythm, although he is confident that his best version will appear in the decisive stage.
"I had been out for almost two months and it's not the same as when you've already played seven consecutive matches. That match will come. Always, the closer the important matches get, the semi-finals or the final, the better level I bring out. I hope that against Belgium it will be a great match for the whole team", he pointed out.
