Lamine Yamal has distanced himself from comparisons to Lionel Messi while doubling down on his provocative comments about Real Madrid ahead of Barcelona\'s Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan.
The 17-year-old phenom, who will make his remarkable 100th appearance for Barcelona in Wednesday\'s first leg, dismissed the frequent parallels drawn between himself and the Argentine legend despite occupying the same right-wing position and showing similar precocious talent.
\"I don\'t compare myself with anyone, so especially not with [Messi],\" Yamal told reporters on Tuesday. \"I try to be myself and to follow my own path. Obviously I admire him as the best player ever, but I don\'t compare myself with him.\"
While showing maturity regarding the Messi comparisons, Yamal remained defiant about his post-match comments following Barcelona\'s Copa del Rey triumph over Real Madrid. After providing two assists in the 3-2 extra-time victory, Yamal had boldly claimed that Madrid \"can\'t handle\" Barcelona this season, referencing their three consecutive Clásico wins.
\"While I\'m winning, they can\'t say anything. When they beat me, they can,\" said Yamal.
The Spanish international has been instrumental in Barcelona\'s campaign with 14 goals and 24 assists across all competitions, keeping the club in contention for a potential treble.
\"I don\'t have any fear, but I do feel that motivation and get those butterflies in my stomach before a game,\" Yamal explained. \"I think that\'s a good thing. As for any fear, I left that behind in the park in Mataró [where he grew up] a long time ago.\"
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick will hope to harness Yamal\'s confidence against Inter Milan, with the German tactician noting that the recent cup win provides \"positive vibes\" heading into the crucial European fixture.