Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Lamine Yamal Uses 60 Minutes Spotlight to Reject Messi Comparisons and Back Spain’s World Cup Bid

The 18-year-old frames his choice of Spain as rooted in his upbringing.

Overview

  • In a CBS 60 Minutes interview, Lamine Yamal said he admires Lionel Messi yet does not want to be him, stressing he intends to follow his own path.
  • He added that he has no intention of copying Messi’s style or wearing the Argentine’s iconic No. 10 shirt.
  • Yamal explained that he never doubted playing for Spain over Morocco, citing his life in Spain and the pull of European tournaments such as the Euro.
  • Looking to 2026, he voiced confidence that Spain will be world champion and said he has never felt pressure despite his rapid rise.
  • His appearance marks a rare 60 Minutes feature for a footballer, with only David Beckham, Christian Pulisic and Messi previously profiled.