Former Manchester United striker, Wayne Rooney, says that Lamine Yamal is miles ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi at this stage of his career.
Rooney also believes that Yamal could go on to surpass the two legends overall.
The 18-year-old Spain International has already made his mark in world football. He finished second among the best players of the world in the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
He has already won the European championship, the LaLiga, and other titles, making immense contributions to club and country.
He has scored 27 goals and made 37 assists in 109 senior appearances for Barcelona.
He’s also scored six goals and provided 12 assists in 23 games for Spain.
Rooney recently told Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, that Yamal could have a better record than Ronaldo and Messi.
“He’s incredible. I’ve only seen him live once and I think he’s the one to get ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi,” the former England international said.
“If he keeps doing what he’s doing now [he will get there], he’s better than all of them.
“He is miles ahead of Cristiano and Messi [at this stage of his career].”
Ousmane Dembele won the 2025 Ballon d’Or award with Yamal finishing second in the rankings.