Yamal: I don’t play football for money

Barcelona and Spain winger Lamine Yamal has stated that his love for the game, rather than monetary gains or individual accolades, is the driving force behind his football career. In an interview with The Guardian, the young talent expressed that he finds the greatest joy in football when he can showcase his creativity, support his team, and provide opportunities for his teammates.

Yamal emphasized that he has no interest in accumulating individual statistics, asserting that an overemphasis on goals and assists could detract from the pleasure of playing the sport. "I don’t play football for money, I play because I like it," Yamal declared. "Players who are obsessed with goals or assists don’t enjoy. I play for fun, to dribble, to play one touch, two, to make a teammate who has not scored, score, for happiness."

The young midfielder also recounted a chance encounter with football legend Lionel Messi, recounting his gratitude for Messi's contributions to the sport. Yamal approached the Argentine star to express his appreciation, stating that the meeting was an opportunity for him to personally thank Messi, whom he regards as the greatest footballer of all time.

"I went to Leo Messi and said: thank you," Yamal said. "I just thanked him a lot for everything he has done and how he’s the best. I’ve always believed he is the best." Yamal clarified that this spontaneous act was not driven by a desire for publicity or attention, but rather from a genuine desire to express his admiration for Messi's impact on football.

"I always try to distance myself a little from things that seem beautiful for show. The moment came from within. I saw him there, so I went to thank him for what he did for football, it came spontaneously," he concluded.