19-year-old Messi-Yamal photo resurfaces ahead of world cup final

A 19-year-old photograph showing a young Lionel Messi bathing baby Lamine Yamal has resurfaced on social media ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain.

The image, taken in 2007 as part of a charity calendar photoshoot organised by Barcelona and a local newspaper, has regained widespread attention after both players helped their countries reach the biggest stage in international football.

Messi, now Argentina’s captain and one of football’s greatest players, is set to face Yamal, Spain’s teenage sensation, in Sunday’s final, adding a remarkable chapter to their shared history.

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The photograph captures a teenage Messi, then an emerging Barcelona star, holding and bathing an infant Yamal, who would go on to become one of the game’s brightest young talents nearly two decades later.

The image first went viral in 2024 during Yamal’s rise to prominence with Spain and Barcelona but has resurfaced once again as the pair prepare to meet on opposite sides in the World Cup final.

The unexpected connection between the two footballers has fascinated fans worldwide, with many describing it as one of the sport’s most extraordinary full-circle moments.

Hannah Johnson

Hannah Johnson is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over three years of professional experience in reporting, storytelling, and digital content creation. She blends traditional reporting skills with a modern, digital-first approach to journalism, producing content tailored for both web and social platforms. Hannah is skilled at turning complex topics into clear, engaging, and relatable stories that resonate with a wide audience. Her work reflects hands-on newsroom experience, editorial judgment, and a strong commitment to accurate, audience-focused journalism.

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