Football means more to me than money — Yamal

Spain International, Lamine Yamal says his passion for football, rather than financial rewards, goals or assists, remains the primary reason he plays the game.

In an interview with The Guardian, the Barcelona winger made remarks about how he enjoys football most when he is able to express his creativity, contribute to his team and create opportunities for his teammates.

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Yamal said he does not want individual statistics to become the main focus of his career, stressing that an excessive obsession with goals and assists could take away from the enjoyment of the game.

“I don’t play football for money, I play because I like it,” Yamal said.

“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.”

The Barcelona winger also spoke about an encounter with Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, recalling how he approached the former Barcelona star to express his appreciation for his contribution to football.

According to Yamal, the meeting was an opportunity for him to personally thank Messi, whom he has long regarded as the best player in football.

“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 said his decision to approach Messi was spontaneous and was not motivated by a desire to attract publicity or create a moment for public attention.

“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.