The photo shows Messi helping Yamal’s parents bathe the boy. He appeared with his characteristic long hair when he first debuted in Barcelona. But many big questions have been raised: why was Messi there at that time and is this photo real?
To answer those questions, the sports daily newspaper Sport (Barcelona, Spain) confirmed that the photo was completely real. They are also the copyright owner of this photo.
The time of this photo was in December 2007, when Messi was about 20 years old and Yamal was only about 5 months old. Yamal’s father also confirmed the authenticity of the photos on social networks.
This photo was taken by Sport newspaper, which at that time published a UNICEF charity calendar every year.
35,000 copies of the calendar were printed, each selling for 4.50 euros. The proceeds helped many charities.
This event is held every year and Sport newspaper organizes a random draw. Yamal’s father (a football enthusiast) was lucky enough to win the prize.
Messi is currently 37 years old and Yamal will turn 17 next week. Messi is participating in the Copa America with the Argentina team, while Yamal has just reached the semi-finals of Euro 2024 with Spain.
The photo is proof of the special connection between Messi and Yamal, two outstanding talents of Barcelona.