Former France International, Florent Malouda has noted that it would be just too early to start comparing Lamine Yamal with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Frenchman believes it is not the time to put such talks in the head of the 17-year-old, adding that the Barcelona star needs to show longevity and improve slowly.
The former Chelsea star told Racing Tipster that Yamal has his own personality, which can be overshadowed by the Messi, Ronaldo comparisons.
“That’s too much right now, and that’s also in a kind of way erasing his own personality. He’s probably inspired by a mix of both, but you can see he has his own touch.
“He has his own personality. Of course he’s still young, but so experienced. I’m not sure that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi did what he did at his age.
“Now it’s more about longevity and how he not only maintains this level but improves.
“We will be able to compare the three players if he sets goals to achieve and is able to maximise his talent. He should not be just happy with what he’s doing because now it feels like he’s comfortable.
“If he sets himself a high standard that matches his talent, I think he can be compared to those two, who are in a league of their own. But there’s a lot of years and games ahead of him to confirm he can meet his potential.”
Yamal was instrumental for Spain as they claimed the 2024 UEFA Euro.
He was pivotal for Barcelona reaching the semifinal of the UEFA Champions League this season but the Catalans crashed out of the competition to Inter Milan on Tuesday.
