Yamal names Messi as ‘greatest in history’ but idolizes Neymar

Barcelona and Spain winger Lamine Yamal has described Lionel Messi as the greatest player in football history but revealed that former Brazil star Neymar remains his personal idol.

The 18-year-old made the remarks while discussing the players who have influenced his development, insisting there is no debate over Messi’s place in football history despite choosing Neymar as the player he admired most growing up.

Messi remains the benchmark

Speaking to RTVE, Yamal praised Messi’s continued impact on the game and said the Argentine’s performances consistently prove why he is regarded as football’s greatest player.

“I think that in every match he shows that he is the best player in history,” Yamal said.

“If someone has doubts, it is because they are looking for them; there is nothing more to say there. For me, he is the best.”

Messi recently strengthened his legendary status at the 2026 World Cup after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria.

The performance moved him level with Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals.

Despite his admiration for Messi, Yamal said Neymar had the biggest influence on his style of play.

“Obviously, my idol is Neymar because I like watching him play, but Messi is the best, and there is no discussion about that,” he added.

Spain star focused on recovery

Yamal also addressed his fitness situation ahead of Spain’s next World Cup fixture, stressing that he is not rushing his return to full match sharpness after recent injury concerns.

The teenager said he is following a gradual recovery plan and does not believe he is ready to play an entire match.

“I think it’s very soon; it’s unnecessary. I have a process of adaptation first. I don’t think it’s the time to play a whole game, but I can play the minutes that the coach wants,” he said.

Looking ahead, Yamal welcomed the prospect of facing top nations in the knockout stages, insisting Spain should be prepared to challenge any opponent if they hope to lift the World Cup trophy.

He added that team success remains more important to him than individual scoring records.