Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni refused to compare the legendary Lionel Messi to Yamal, stating that the Spanish international is a great player, but is still a long way from the Flea.
Scaloni was asked before Wednesday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Brazil about Messi’s absence and the impact it will have on Argentina in the Superclasico. He responded by considering it a good opportunity to discover his replacement.
“It’s a great opportunity to show that the team is still strong, and the goal is to perform well against a strong opponent,” the Argentine coach said.
He added, “We have to find a way to play without Messi. We’re trying to develop a system that minimizes the impact of his absence as much as possible.”
When asked about comparing Yamal to Messi, he replied, “Yamal is probably one of the best players in the world right now. I don’t know how to compare him to Leo; the comparison is difficult and very far-fetched.”
He continued, “I don’t want to say anything I don’t want to say. But he’s a great player, that’s clear. And he’ll perform much better.”
