The Viral Photo That Predicted Greatness
In a fascinating twist of fate, a photo taken nearly 17 years ago has resurfaced, linking two football prodigies: Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal. The image, originally shot for a charity calendar by Joan Monfort, shows a young Messi holding a baby Yamal. Today, both have carved their names into the annals of football history. Messi, now an established legend, and Yamal, a rising star, have both made significant strides in their respective careers. Yamal's recent performance in the Euro 2024 has particularly caught the world's attention, making him the youngest footballer to play for Spain and to participate in the European Championship.
A Photo Shoot to Remember
The photo was taken in the fall of 2007 at Barcelona's Camp Nou, where Barcelona players posed with children and their families for a calendar organized by Diario Sport and UNICEF. Monfort recalls the session as challenging, especially since Messi, then a shy 20-year-old, was unsure how to interact with baby Yamal, who was in a plastic bathtub. Despite the initial awkwardness, the photo has now become iconic, symbolizing the beginning of two legendary careers.
The Journey of Two Legends
Both Messi and Yamal have roots in Barcelona's renowned youth academy, La Masía. While Messi has gone on to become one of the greatest footballers of all time, Yamal is quickly making a name for himself. At just 16, Yamal has already set records, including becoming the youngest player to debut and score for Barcelona in LaLiga. His recent goal in the Euro 2024 semifinal against France has further solidified his status as a prodigy. As Yamal turns 17, he stands on the brink of potentially becoming the youngest player to compete in a European Championship final.
The Emotional Impact of a Viral Photo
Photographer Joan Monfort, who has been capturing sports moments since 1991, expressed his excitement over the photo’s newfound fame. He had no idea it was Yamal in the picture until a friend alerted him when the image started trending online. Monfort finds it thrilling to be associated with such a significant moment in sports history, noting that the photo has evoked a strong emotional response from both Messi and Yamal's fans. As the two footballers prepare for their respective finals, the photo serves as a poignant reminder of their shared journey from promising talents to football legends.
