With Lamine Yamal’s meteoric rise at FC Barcelona, comparisons to Lionel Messi have become inevitable. But a legendary figure from Barça’s past has decided to put the debate to rest. Carles Rexach, the man credited with discovering Messi as a youth, offered a blunt assessment when comparing the two talents.

“Messi Did Everything at Supersonic Speed”

Speaking to Olé, Rexach praised Yamal’s ability but emphasized that Messi operated on a completely different level:

“Messi was more skillful, faster. He did everything at supersonic speed. He was something else.”

While acknowledging that Yamal has tremendous potential, Rexach was clear about the challenge of reaching Messi’s historic numbers:

“He could become very good, but he won’t score the goals Messi did.”

Lamine Yamal, A Rising Star with a Bright Future

At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal has already impressed with his football IQ, dribbling, and creativity on the wing. He’s been a key figure in Barcelona’s 2024/25 season, even earning Ballon d’Or buzz from outlets like Score90.

Despite this, Rexach urges caution and reminds fans that each player deserves to forge their own path—without unnecessary comparisons.

Two Icons, Two Different Journeys

Lionel Messi left an indelible legacy at Barça and in world football. Lamine Yamal, meanwhile, is just beginning his journey. What matters now for the Blaugrana is that the young winger keeps his feet on the ground and continues his steady development.

As Rexach, a Barça icon and pivotal figure in Messi’s story, makes clear: there will never be another Messi—but that doesn’t take anything away from the incredible promise that Yamal represents.