In a remarkable twist of fate that reads like a Hollywood script, soccer icons Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal have both etched their names in the annals of football history this week, 16 years after their paths first crossed in an heartwarming photoshoot.

The 36-year-old Messi, fresh from leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, has once again demonstrated his enduring class by propelling his nation into the Copa America final with a 2-0 victory over Canada. The maestro’s first goal of the tournament served as a poignant reminder of his undiminished prowess.

Meanwhile, the prodigious Yamal, a mere 16 years of age, has become the youngest goal-scorer in European Championship history, finding the net in Spain’s 2-0 triumph against France.

The teenage sensation, who turns 17 on the eve of the final, has set the football world abuzz with his precocious talent.

Messi and Yamal as a Baby

But it’s the resurfaced images from 2007 that have captured the imagination of fans worldwide. These touching photographs, taken by AP freelance photographer Joan Monfort, show a 20-year-old Messi cradling baby Yamal and even helping to bathe the infant in a plastic tub at Barcelona’s Camp Nou.

The images were part of a UNICEF charity calendar, with Yamal’s family winning a raffle to participate. Monfort recalls the shy Messi’s initial awkwardness, noting, “He didn’t even know how to hold him at first.”

Fast forward to 2024, and both players are now shining for their respective national teams, having honed their skills at FC Barcelona. Yamal’s father recently shared one of these nostalgic images on Instagram, captioning it “the beginning of two greats.”

Yep, that’s a six-month old Lamine Yamal with a 20-year-old Lionel Messi at a photoshoot in the Camp Nou.

At least now we know where the teenager gets his powers from 😉🐐#ESPFRA #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/ZpHVlElUBO

— DW Sports (@dw_sports) July 9, 2024

As Messi continues to cement his legacy and Yamal embarks on what promises to be a stellar career, these photographs serve as a poignant reminder of soccer’s ability to weave together destinies and create truly extraordinary narratives.

Source: Adapted from CBS News 

Facts Check

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In a stunning move, FC Barcelona has reportedly turned down a monumental €250 million offer for their rising star, Lamine Yamal, ahead of the 2024 European Championship.

This decisive action underscores the club’s unwavering commitment to the young talent, who has been making headlines in Germany with his historic performance for Spain.

Yamal, who recently became the youngest player to score in a Euro tournament with his pivotal goal in Spain’s semi-final victory over France, has been a standout figure in this year’s competition. The bid, which was allegedly received before the tournament commenced, was immediately dismissed by Barcelona’s management, emphasizing Yamal’s untouchable status.

According to EFE, the offer was so substantial that it could have easily swayed many clubs, but Barcelona’s director of football, Deco, did not even consider it. The club’s firm stance highlights their long-term plans for the prodigious teenager, ensuring he remains integral to their future.

Who Made the Offer?

While the specific club behind the offer remains unnamed, previous rumors have hinted at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) being the potential suitor. PSG has a history of eyeing top-tier talents and was speculated to be ready to invest heavily in securing Yamal’s signature.

Barcelona’s Commitment to Yamal

Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, has previously disclosed that the club rejected a €200 million bid for Yamal. This latest offer, exceeding that amount, reaffirms the club’s steadfast commitment to nurturing and retaining their homegrown talent.

Lamine Yamal for you. 🥶⚡️ pic.twitter.com/22jRB9qk9y

— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) July 10, 2024

Laporta has consistently emphasized that Barcelona has a long-term agreement in place with Yamal, ensuring that the young star’s future lies firmly with the Catalan giants.

This development comes as Yamal continues to dazzle on the international stage, reinforcing Barcelona’s decision to keep him as a cornerstone of their squad for years to come.

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