How Many More Signs Do We Need? Lamine Yamal Is Already a Superstar

Lamine Yamal is just 17 years old. Sometimes, when he’s not tearing apart defenses, scoring wonder goals in the Champions League, or leading Barcelona’s title charge in La Liga, he actually looks his age. He still wears braces. He’s waiting for his secondary school exam results. His infectious, boyish grin reminds everyone that, at heart, he’s still a teenager.

But on nights like Tuesday, he looks like the best soccer player in the world.

Because even at 17, he just might be. And at this point, it’s not an overhyped, reactionary claim. Yamal delivered yet another masterclass, driving Barcelona into the Champions League quarterfinals and adding to an already remarkable résumé of brilliance.

A Performance Beyond His Years

It started with a moment of magic—ghosting past two Benfica defenders with a single feint, leaving them scrambling as he found Raphinha at the far post for the opening goal. Then, just 16 minutes later, Yamal showcased his finishing prowess, curling a sublime shot into the far corner, a goal that seemed to defy physics.

Barcelona went on to dispatch Benfica 3-1 on the night, 4-1 on aggregate, with Yamal once again at the heart of everything. But this wasn’t a one-off. He has been doing this consistently for over a year now—lighting up La Liga, dazzling at the Euros, and proving he’s more than just a future star. Since last February, he’s contributed to 45 goals for club and country. And he’s still not even old enough to vote.

No Longer Just a “Future Star”

When Yamal helped Spain win the European Championship last summer, he was seen as a breakout talent, a prodigy with limitless potential. But now? He’s no longer just a promising young talent—he’s already among the best.

“I think it’s silly to compare him to Messi, because Messi is unique and there will never be anyone like him,” Barcelona teammate Gavi said in January. “Everyone is their own person and writes their own story.” But then he added: “Lamine, for me, is the best today.”

And the stats back it up. Yamal leads La Liga in assists and goal-creating actions. His progressive dribbling numbers are nearly on par with Vinicius Jr. He’s making seasoned defenders look foolish on a weekly basis. His influence extends beyond his own performances—he’s elevated Raphinha’s game, extended Robert Lewandowski’s prime, and is a driving force behind Barcelona’s resurgence.

Is He Already the Best in the World?

Of course, the football world is stacked with elite talent. There’s Rodri, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner. Mohamed Salah, who is having a career-best season at Liverpool. Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr., who have been performing at an elite level for years.

But Yamal, even at 17, looks like a more complete player. He’s not just a highlight-reel dribbler; he contributes in every phase of the game. He defends. He creates. He scores. And he does it all with an ease and maturity that defies his age.

He is on a Messi-like trajectory. That doesn’t mean he’ll reach the GOAT’s level—careers are unpredictable, and injuries can change everything—but saying he’s on that path is no longer outrageous.

He might not quite have the “best in the world” title yet, but if he keeps this up, it won’t be long before it’s undeniable.

Lamine Yamal Sets the Record Straight on His ‘Assist’ to Raphinha in Barcelona’s Win Over Benfica

Lamine Yamal stole the show on Tuesday night as Barcelona cruised past Benfica to book their spot in the Champions League quarter-finals. The teenage sensation dazzled yet again, setting up Raphinha for the opening goal before scoring a stunning second himself.

However, in a refreshingly honest post-match admission, Yamal confessed that his “assist” wasn’t exactly intentional.

“I tried to shoot,” he admitted. “I have to thank Raphinha, who was alert and able to capitalize on my shot and score. He’s having a fantastic season, and I’m really happy for him.”

Regardless of the mishap, Yamal’s influence on the game was undeniable. His breathtaking solo goal—where he weaved past defenders before curling a perfect shot into the net—left even himself in awe.

“Yes, I think it’s my best goal,” he said. “I’d put it on par with the one I scored at the European Championship against France.”

Despite all the hype surrounding him, Yamal remains grounded, focused on enjoying the ride rather than overanalyzing his meteoric rise.

“So far, everything is going well, and I’m having a lot of fun this season,” he added. “I owe a lot to my teammates because they make everything easy for me.”

Fun or not, Yamal made history yet again, becoming the youngest player ever to score and assist in the same Champions League match. And if this is just the beginning, the football world is in for something truly special.