Götze: Yamal far from Leo Messi comparison

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Mario Götze described his 2014 World Cup-winning goal as a “unique moment” in his career and believes Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal is on a promising trajectory, though still far from comparisons with Lionel Messi.

The Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder shared his insights in an interview with TNT Sports ahead of his side’s Champions League fixture at the Camp Nou.

Götze has characterised his decisive goal in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final as an experience unlikely to be replicated in his career. Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of Frankfurt’s Champions League group-stage match against Barcelona, Götze reflected on the enduring association between his name and Germany’s triumph over Argentina.

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Götze acknowledged that the moment defined his international legacy, noting that scoring the winning goal in a World Cup final is an opportunity few players ever encounter. “Looking back, playing in a World Cup and winning it was extraordinary. It remains the pinnacle of the sport, and I was fortunate to experience it,” he said.

Asked about Lionel Messi—whom he faced in that final and who spent the majority of his career at Barcelona—Götze said the Argentine forward continues to hold a unique place in both the club’s identity and global football. While avoiding speculation about a potential return to Camp Nou, he emphasised Messi’s enduring connection to Barcelona’s history. “He contributed so much to this club. He belongs here and will always be welcomed as part of its story,” he noted.

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Götze also addressed comparisons between Messi and Barcelona’s emerging talent Lamine Yamal. While dismissing the notion that the teenager is close to reaching Messi’s level, he praised Yamal’s early progress and performance environment. “He is still very young, but he is developing in the right way. Playing for Barcelona at this age in a top stadium and a top team shows his potential. He is on a strong path to becoming one of the top players in the world,” he said.

Frankfurt face Barcelona in the sixth round of the Champions League group stage, a fixture that puts Götze back at the venue where Messi forged much of his celebrated career.

Photo: Rafa Babot/Getty Images

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