Frenkie de Jong has played down comparisons between Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi, insisting that no player can match the Argentine great.
Speaking after the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw with Spain in the UEFA Nations League, the Barcelona midfielder acknowledged Yamal’s talent but maintained that it is too early to draw parallels with Messi.
De Jong, 27, addressed the growing hype surrounding the 17-year-old prodigy, stating that while Yamal is an extraordinary talent, he still has a long journey ahead before reaching the level of the club’s most iconic player.
“I think Yamal shouldn’t be compared to Messi because, in my opinion, no footballer can match Messi,” De Jong said. “I doubt there will ever be another like him.”
Despite dismissing the direct comparison, De Jong did not hold back in praising the young forward’s abilities. He described Yamal as a “very rare” talent and commended his exceptional maturity on the pitch.
“He’s a natural talent,” De Jong continued. “His understanding of the game and the decisions he makes at his age are truly impressive. I think this skill is completely innate, and fortunately, he has it.”
Yamal has been one of Barcelona’s brightest young stars, making significant contributions to both club and country despite his youth.
His performances have sparked discussions about whether he could follow in the footsteps of Messi, who also broke onto the scene as a teenager and went on to become one of football’s greatest players.
However, De Jong’s remarks serve as a reminder of the immense challenge of replicating Messi’s success.
While Yamal continues to showcase his potential, the Dutch midfielder believes it is important to allow the youngster to develop at his own pace without unfair expectations.
Barcelona fans remain excited about Yamal’s future, but as De Jong pointed out, comparisons with Messi may be premature.
For now, the focus remains on nurturing the teenager’s talent and allowing him to carve out his own path in the game.
