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‘He’s the greatest player of all time’ – Lamine Yamal reveals his football idols
Barcelona’s rising star, 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, opened up about his inspirations in both football and fashion.
The teenager, who has had a remarkable year, winning the European Championship with Spain and securing the Kopa Trophy at the Ballon d’Or awards, is quickly making a name for himself.
Yamal has been instrumental in Barcelona’s strong start to the 2024/25 La Liga season, further establishing his place in one of Europe’s top football clubs.
Reflecting on his football idols, Yamal named Lionel Messi as the “greatest of all time,” citing Messi’s influence on his enjoyment of the game. However, he shared that his main inspiration growing up was Neymar. “Messi is obviously the greatest of all time and someone I always enjoy watching, but my idol when I was younger was Neymar because of his way of playing and his style,” Yamal said in a recent interview with Highsnobiety. “I’ve watched all his videos, and he inspired me to try new things on the pitch.”
“Messi is obviously the greatest of all time and someone I always enjoy watching, but my idol when I was younger was Neymar because of his way of playing and his style.”
Lamine Yamal gets into idols, fashion, and football with Highsnobiety https://t.co/28cucEPlR1 pic.twitter.com/IIIVhg8rwG
— highsnobiety (@highsnobiety) October 29, 2024
Off the field, Yamal’s interest in fashion has also been catching attention. During Barcelona’s recent triumph over Real Madrid in the October El Clasico, he donned custom-made braces featuring blue and red gems by fashion brand TwoJeys. He explained, “I like the details and unique designs in jewelry… I try to make sure all the accessories I wear have an important meaning to me.” His style, he says, is a blend of influences. “As for fashion, I like it, and I pay attention to it, but I try to create my own style. I like wearing a bit of everything and mixing things up.”
Yamal is also focused on his future with both Barcelona and the Spanish national team. “I feel really good and eager to achieve important things with Barca and the National Team,” he stated. He emphasized his commitment to his current competitions, adding, “I try to focus on the competitions I’m playing right now, which are the league and the Champions League, though of course, playing in a World Cup is a dream for me.”
As one of the most promising talents in football, Yamal’s impact on the sport continues to grow, and his influence now stretches into the realms of fashion, showcasing his versatility both on and off the pitch.