Lamine Yamal Speaks Out: Football Is About Fun, Not Money

Barcelona and Spain winger Lamine Yamal has revealed that his love for football remains his biggest motivation, insisting that money, goals and assists are not the main reasons he plays the game.

The 19-year-old made the remarks in a recent interview, where he explained that he gets the most enjoyment from expressing himself on the pitch, helping his teammates and creating opportunities rather than focusing heavily on personal statistics.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Yamal said an excessive focus on goals and assists could take away from the enjoyment of football. The Barcelona youngster explained that he prefers playing with freedom, dribbling, combining quickly with teammates and creating moments that bring happiness to others.

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

He added that players who become overly concerned about their individual statistics may struggle to enjoy the game, stressing that his own priority is to have fun, create chances and help teammates score.

“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 said.

Yamal also reflected on his meeting with Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, whom he described as the best player in the game.

The Barcelona winger recalled approaching Messi during their encounter to express his gratitude for the former Barcelona star’s contribution to 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 further explained that his decision to approach Messi was completely spontaneous and was not intended to generate publicity or attract attention.

According to the teenager, the moment came naturally after he saw Messi and felt compelled to thank him personally for his impact on the sport.

“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.

Yamal’s comments highlight his stated desire to maintain his enjoyment of football while developing his career, rather than allowing individual statistics or financial considerations to become the sole measure of his success.