The Liverpool legend heaps praise on Yamal: his name will be alongside Messi and Ronaldo

Liverpool legend and TNT Sports expert Steven Gerrard believes that Lamin Yamal will be remembered in 10 years alongside the legends of the game throughout history, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The Liverpool legend described Yamal, the star of FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team, as an “incredibly exceptional player.”

The 19-year-old finished third in the race to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or, behind Kylian Mbappé and winner Harry Kane. He started the season with a very strong performance, scoring 13 goals and providing 11 assists in all competitions.

His thirteenth goal of the season came early in Barcelona's 3-0 win over Aston Villa in the Champions League, as the young player opened the scoring for the Catalan team. Speaking inside the tunnel leading to the Camp Nou pitch before the match, Gerrard said: “We are talking about a super star.

He is an exceptional player by all standards; The numbers he is achieving at the moment - both in terms of goals and assists - are beyond imagination, and they are truly terrifying. The former Liverpool captain added: “Just being on the field tonight to follow him closely, I am sure, will be a pleasure.”

Gerrard continued: “In England we talk about big stars who are 16, 17 or 18 years old, who have only played a few matches. As for him, he is the same age, but he is achieving incredible numbers, to the point that his name is already being put forward on the list of candidates to win the Ballon d’Or.

He is still in his teens, which is really surprising.” He added: “Such players appear from time to time - such as Messi and Ronaldo - and I am certain, and I am not anticipating events by saying this, that after a decade his name will be mentioned alongside their names.”

Barcelona and England winger Anthony Gordon interrupted Gerrard, who greeted him with a hug. Moments later, Yamal did the same, hugging Gerrard before heading onto the pitch to warm up.

Barcelona's attacking players have entertained the fans so far this season, scoring a remarkable tally of 46 goals in just 11 matches in the Spanish League, and 14 goals in four matches in the Champions League. While Rafinha and Yamal - two of the top scorers - received the lion's share of praise, Gordon also caught attention following his move from Newcastle United, where he managed to provide five assists and score two goals in the Spanish League.

Gerrard said: "Anthony is a person who loves learning. He seeks to grow and develop." He added: “He himself aspires to become a world-class player.

The potential is there, and we have already seen that at club and national level.” He continued: “He was great in England, and I think Newcastle under Eddie Howe did a lot of positive things for him.

Now, he has to continue to develop and move to the next level." Gerrard said: " I think the training he received at Barcelona - and also under Thomas Tuchel - has taken his level to new heights.

He plays for Barcelona at an ideal age and at the peak of his ability. He also represents the English national team, and performs outstandingly with both parties.