Lionel Messi has heaped praise on Spain’s rising star Lamine Yamal, calling him the best player of the new generation at an Adidas event tied to FIFA World Cup 2026. Speaking alongside the spotlight on Yamal’s promise, Messi also revisited the themes of his long-standing rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo, adding extra weight to the compliment.
Barcelona head to Getafe in La Liga on Saturday with uncertainty around Lamine Yamal after he injured himself immediately after scoring a penalty versus Celta Vigo. The 18-year-old’s strike secured a 1-0 win, but his reaction raised fears over his availability. With the title race tightening, Barcelona’s attack may need to adjust quickly.
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Barcelona says Lamine Yamal will miss the remaining six La Liga games after a leg injury sustained while taking a penalty against Celta Vigo. The club expects him to recover in time to play for Spain at the FIFA World Cup 2026, though no exact return date has been confirmed. Yamal is following a controlled recovery plan.
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