In 2007, a then 20 year old Lionel Messi who was playing for FC Barcelona, took a photograph with a young Spanish boy who was six months old.
That boy turned out to be Lamine Yamal who has become Spain’s biggest star 19 years after that infamous picture was taken with the man who has become arguably the greatest footballer ever.
In an interesting twist, the two men will face off in the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday, July 19 as Argentina take on Spain with Messi leading Argentina.
Lionel Messi is attempting to win the World Cup title for the second time in a row after clinching the title in 2022 and at a Fanatics Fest ahead of the big game, Messi spoke about the infamous picture.
“That photo is incredible.”
“I took a picture with him- Lamine Yamal- when he was a baby … the fact that we’re both playing in the World Cup now is crazy. He’s one of the best in the world right now.”
“I wish him luck because his success will be Barcelona’s success, [but] we’ll try to keep him from playing at his best. He’s a tremendous player.”
“I wish him the best, but we’ll give it our all to ensure he doesn’t become champion this time” Messi said.
