Former Real Madrid coach weighs in on Yamal-Messi comparisons – ‘Doesn’t have Messi’s genius’ | OneFootball

Fabio Capello was one of the chief speakers at the Laureus Awards ceremony, where the nominees for this year were revealed.

During his address, the Italian heaped praise on Carlo Ancelotti and his man-management skills. But he also talked about up-and-coming talents in world football, including Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal.

Capello on Yamal’s Messi comparisons

The legendary Italian coach notably weighed his thoughts on Yamal and the comparisons with Lionel Messi.

Interestingly, Capello admitted that Yamal is a top player but claimed that he does not have the genius of Lionel Messi.

“He’s a kid who is doing important things. When he started at Barcelona, ​​it was said that he was the new Messi,” he said (h/t MARCA), acknowledging the public chatter over Yamal becoming the next Messi for Barcelona.

Does Yamal have what it takes to become the next Messi? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

However, Capello added, “He doesn’t reach that level. He’s an extraordinary, spectacular, top player, but he doesn’t have Messi’s genius.”

Capello’s statement may resonate strongly, as it articulates an observation that many may have considered but were reluctant to express.

Yamal, nevertheless, is a major asset for Barcelona, whether or not he becomes the next Messi for the club.

On pure statistical terms, Yamal, at 17, has done much more for the club than anyone else in the history. But it is now up to the young Spaniard to build on this foundation and elevate his game further.

For now, Yamal will look to improve his scoring record, having failed to find the back of the net in La Liga since October of last year.