Lamine Yamal: I don't compare myself to Messi, he is the best in history

Barcelona talent Lamine Yamal appeared before the media at a press conference alongside coach Hansi Flick, on the eve of the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Inter.

The Catalans will host the Italian giants tomorrow at the Montjuïc stadium, in a highly anticipated match.

Yamal emphasized the team's great desire to reach the grand final.

"We have a great desire to show ourselves and make it to the final," he said.

Asked about tomorrow's rivals, Yamal revealed that he has a special admiration for two of Inter's 'stars':

"I really like Barella and Lautaro. When they have the ball, they play very well, but they also defend brilliantly. They are a team I like to watch."

Despite this being his first time in a Champions League semi-final, the 17-year-old showed no signs of fear or pressure.

"I didn't feel afraid, but I had motivation before the match. I left fear behind in the Mataró park a long time ago. I wouldn't call it pressure."

"I go out on the field to enjoy it. Football knows no age – if you are ready, you are ready. It all depends on the quality and mentality of the individual. We have a young team, but we are at a very high level."

He also shared a personal message about how he wants to be remembered as a footballer:

"I want to be remembered as a player and as a person and to always be polite - that's what my parents taught me at home."

Regarding the comparisons often made to Lionel Messi – the Barcelona legend who has recently spoken in superlatives about him – Yamal calmly dismissed them:

"I will not compare myself to him or anyone else. I leave that to the press. I only think about improving every day. These comparisons make no sense, especially when it comes to Messi, who is the best in history."

"I haven't spoken to him."

However, Yamal did not hide his confidence in the path he has followed so far:

"Few players my age have played so many games for Barcelona. I focus on that."

"I really appreciate that I have the mentality to always be motivated, the consistency that I have and the level that I have reached at this age. It's not something that everyone can do."

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