Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong has dismissed comparisons between rising star Lamine Yamal and club legend Lionel Messi.
The Barcelona star explained that the teenager has not yet reached a level where such comparisons are warranted.
De Jong, 27, emphasized that Messi’s greatness is unparalleled and that it is unrealistic to expect another player to match his level.
He made these remarks about Yamal, whose father is Moroccan and mother is from Equatorial Guinea, during the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw against Spain in the UEFA Nations League last Thursday.
“I don’t think you should compare him with Messi because I think that every footballer you compare with Messi is still not good enough,” De Jong said. “I don’t think there will be another one like Messi.”
Despite shutting down the comparisons, De Jong acknowledged Yamal’s exceptional talent and potential. The 17-year-old has been one of Barcelona’s standout performers this season, impressing with his skill and maturity on the ball.
“What he is doing at this age is exceptional and very rare. He is a natural talent,” De Jong added. “The way he understands the game, the decisions he makes at this age, are really impressive. I think this skill is completely innate, and fortunately, he has it.”
Both players will return to Barcelona after the international break, as Hansi Flick’s side continues their push for the La Liga title. The team currently sits at the top of the table with 60 points and a game in hand over second-placed Real Madrid.
