Yamal Cites Neymar's Influence as Barcelona Prepare for UCL Comeback

Young star makes World Cup plea for Brazilian icon ahead of crucial second leg against Atlético Madrid.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:27pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a soccer match, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes of color, capturing the raw energy and tension of the game.Yamal's admiration for Neymar's iconic comeback inspires Barcelona's quest for a historic Champions League reversal.Cleveland Today

Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old Barcelona star, has been vocal in the lead-up to his team's crucial UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Atlético Madrid. Yamal cited the influence of his idol, Neymar, and the Brazilian's iconic comeback performance against PSG in 2017 as inspiration. The young Spaniard also expressed his hope that Neymar will be part of the 2026 World Cup, praising the former Barcelona player's impact on the game.

Why it matters

Yamal's comments highlight the lasting legacy of Neymar's career and the influence he has had on the next generation of football stars. As Barcelona look to overturn a two-goal deficit against Atlético, Yamal's admiration for Neymar's heroics could provide the team with added motivation to pull off a historic comeback.

The details

Ahead of the second leg, Yamal was asked about revisiting Neymar's performance in Barcelona's famous comeback against PSG in 2017. The teenager was effusive in his praise, calling Neymar his 'idol' and a player who 'defined my entire childhood.' Yamal then went a step further, expressing his hope that Neymar would be part of the 2026 World Cup, describing him as 'the kind of player you pay for a ticket to see.'

  • The second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid is set for tomorrow.
  • Neymar's iconic comeback performance for Barcelona against PSG occurred in the 2016-17 season.

The players

Lamine Yamal

An 18-year-old Spanish footballer who plays as a forward for FC Barcelona. He has been a key player for Barcelona this season and is seen as one of the brightest young talents in European football.

Neymar

A Brazilian professional footballer who previously played for Barcelona and is considered one of the best players of his generation. Neymar is known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and goal-scoring ability.

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What they’re saying

“I have seen it many times; I have seen it live as well. Neymar is a player who defined my entire childhood—he is my idol—and I will always be grateful for what he has given to football.”

— Lamine Yamal, Barcelona Forward

“I believe he inspires us all. He is the kind of player you pay for a ticket to see; three days would pass after a match, and you'd watch it again just to see his plays. I want to thank him for what he has given to the game, and I hope he can be at the World Cup.”

— Lamine Yamal, Barcelona Forward

What’s next

Barcelona will face Atlético Madrid in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tomorrow, with the Spanish giants looking to overturn a two-goal deficit from the first leg.

The takeaway

Yamal's admiration for Neymar's influence and his hope for the Brazilian's inclusion in the 2026 World Cup highlights the lasting impact of the former Barcelona star. As Barcelona prepare for a crucial Champions League comeback, Yamal's words serve as a reminder of the power of football's iconic moments and the ability of legendary players to inspire the next generation.