"The way I play is pretty unique" - Lamine Yamal names Lionel Messi and former Barcelona star as his idols

Spanish forward Lamine Yamal has named former Barcelona stars Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr as his role models.

During an interview with GQ Sports, Lamine Yamal was asked about his idols in football. In response to the question, the 17-year-old took the names of Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. He also lauded the two footballers for their playing style.

However, Yamal concluded his response by saying that while many football stars can have a similar playing style to Lionel Messi, no one can actually play like him. He said (via GQ Sports):

"I have two role models in football: Messi and Neymar. Neymar for his awesome way of playing, and Messi because he's the best player in the whole world. The way I play is pretty unique and not often seen. Since I'm also left-handed and I kick with my right leg, some plays may look similar, but no one plays like Messi."

Lamine Yamal was a crucial part of the Spanish football team which won the 2024 European Championships. Spain defeated Gareth Southgate's England 2-1 in the summit clash at the 2024 Euros.

The 17-year-old started six games at the Euros, bagging a goal and four assists. He has started his La Liga campaign under Hansi Flick on a positive note, bagging a goal and four assists in four matches. The Blaugrana are currently in first spot in La Liga, with four wins in four matches.

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Dani Olmo lauds Barcelona star for being a team player

Spanish football star Dani Olmo has lauded Raphinha for being a team player.

Olmo arrived in Barcelona from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig for a reported transfer fee of €60 million earlier this summer.

He said (via Diario SPORT):

"Who have surprised me the most here? Raphinha. I had seen him, but I hadn't played with him. The quality he has... He's a player with whom I think we will get along well and I think he gives everything for the team. He's a team player."

Raphinha joined Barcelona from Leeds United in July 2022. Since joining the La Liga giants, he has made 91 appearances, bagging 23 goals and 28 assists across all competitions. He recently scored a memorable hat-trick during the Blaugrana's 7-0 win over Real Valladolid on Saturday, August 31.

Meanwhile, Olmo became a top name on the transfer radar of several European clubs after he helped Spain win the 2024 European Championships. He scored three goals and assisted two more in six appearances during the 2024 Euros. Having played two matches for Barcelona, he has scored two goals.