Frenkie De Jong Dismisses Comparisons Between Lamine Yamal And Lionel Messi

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Frenkie de Jong has dismissed any comparisons between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, despite Yamal's impressive rise at Barcelona. Yamal, who tops LaLiga's assist charts with 11 in 24 matches this season, debuted for Barca at just 15 years old in April 2023. Comparisons to Messi, who debuted at 17 and won eight Ballon d'Or awards, have naturally followed.

De Jong acknowledges Yamal's talent but insists it's too early to compare him to Messi. "I don't think you should compare him with Messi," De Jong stated before the Nations League quarter-final between the Netherlands and Spain. He praised Yamal's understanding of the game and decision-making as exceptional for his age.

Yamal has made a significant impact since joining Barcelona's first team. Among teenagers in Europe's top leagues, he leads with 29 goal involvements (13 goals, 16 assists), surpassing Desire Doue of Paris Saint-Germain by 11. Only Mohamed Salah, Rayan Cherki, and Raphinha have more assists this season.

Despite Yamal's achievements, De Jong maintains that Messi stands alone as Barcelona's all-time top scorer. "I don't think there will be another one like him," De Jong remarked. On Sunday, Yamal will have a chance to prove himself further as the Netherlands face Spain in Valencia for a Nations League semi-final spot.

"What he is doing at this age is exceptional and very rare," De Jong added about his club-mate. "He is a natural talent." The midfielder believes Yamal's skills are innate and fortunate for the young player.

Yamal also leads Europe’s top five leagues in dribbles completed this season with 100, outpacing Jérémy Doku by 22 dribbles. His performances have justified the praise he receives from fans and experts alike.

As the Nations League match approaches following Thursday’s thrilling 2-2 draw where Mikel Merino scored a stoppage-time equaliser, all eyes will be on Yamal to see if he can continue his remarkable form on such a significant stage.