Lamine Yamal has revealed that personal achievements and financial rewards are not what keep him on the football pitch, saying his biggest motivation is the pleasure he gets from playing the sport.
The Barcelona and Spain star made the remarks during an interview with The Guardian on Saturday, where he spoke about his approach to the game and why he does not want to become overly focused on his individual numbers.
“I don’t play football for money, I play because I like it,” Yamal said.
The teenage winger explained that constantly chasing goals and assists can make football less enjoyable. Instead, he prefers creating chances, taking on defenders and contributing to his teammates’ success.
“Players who are obsessed with goals or assists do not enjoy. I play for fun, to dribble, to play one touch, two, to make a teammate who has not scored, score, for happiness,” he added.
Yamal also recalled his encounter with Lionel Messi and explained why he chose to approach the Argentine icon.
Rather than seeking attention from the meeting, the youngster said he simply wanted to show his appreciation for Messi’s impact on football and the inspiration he has provided over the years.
“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,” he noted.
He further explained that the interaction was unplanned and was not intended to create a public moment. According to Yamal, he saw Messi and instinctively decided to walk over and thank him.
“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 said.
Despite the growing attention around his career, Yamal’s remarks show that he remains focused on the simple enjoyment of playing, creating opportunities and sharing memorable moments with his teammates.
