World Cup
Ralf Rangnick says Lamine Yamal could reach Messi level
Austria manager Ralf Rangnick praised 18‑year‑old Lamine Yamal after Spain’s 4‑0 World Cup win over Saudi Arabia, saying the Barcelona winger could reach Lionel Messi’s level if he stays fit and grounded. The comment came ahead of Austria’s group match against Argentina and before Spain’s next game versus Uruguay.
Rangnick singled out the 18‑year‑old as one of the tournament’s brightest emerging stars. He noted that Luis de la Fuente’s side would be ‘not an opponent anyone would want to face’ as they could meet them later in the knockout phase.
Yamal opened the scoring against Saudi Arabia, playing on the right flank. His willingness to attack defenders created problems for the opposition throughout the first half.
Although not every pass or shot found its target, Yamal remained one of Spain’s most unpredictable attacking outlets. After the interval, the coaching staff withdrew him to manage his minutes ahead of the upcoming match against Uruguay.
Rangnick suggested that if Yamal stays fit and keeps his feet on the ground, he could reach a level similar to Lionel Messi’s. The Austrian manager made the remarks ahead of Austria’s clash with Argentina.
The praise was published in Mundo Deportivo, which quoted Rangnick’s exact words. Photographs accompanying the story were taken by Justin Setterfield and Buda Mendes.