The England international, who recently returned to Manchester United after spending a season on loan at Barcelona, believes Yamal possesses a rare footballing ability that could eventually put him among the greatest players in the history of the game.
Speaking about his experience playing alongside the Spanish youngster, Rashford revealed that he had personally praised Yamal before leaving Barcelona, admitting that even after sharing the pitch with several world-class footballers, he had never encountered anyone quite like him.
“I’ve played with some talented, talented players, but he’s above them all,” Rashford said, according to the Manchester Evening News.
He went even further by comparing Yamal's potential to that of Barcelona legend Lionel Messi.
“I’ve never seen a player at that age be as talented as what he is. For me, he’s the closest somebody can get to the level of Messi over the years.”
Rashford Believes Yamal Could Win Seven Ballon d’Or Awards
Rashford also disclosed that he contacted Yamal before the recent Ballon d’Or awards to encourage him and express his confidence in his future.
The Manchester United forward pointed to Yamal's impressive record in the competition, highlighting his second-place and third-place finishes, as well as his earlier eighth-place position.
Despite his young age, Rashford believes the Barcelona forward has the potential to dominate world football for years.
He even suggested that winning seven Ballon d’Or awards would not surprise him if Yamal continues developing at his current rate.
While such an achievement would be extraordinary, the comparison shows just how highly Rashford regards the young winger.
Two Former Teammates, Different Fortunes
Interestingly, Rashford and Yamal are currently experiencing very different situations in their careers.
Yamal continues to attract attention with his performances for Barcelona, building on his reputation as one of football's most exciting young talents.
Rashford, meanwhile, has had a more difficult period since returning to Manchester United. The English forward has been part of a struggling United side and is currently dealing with a hip injury.
Nevertheless, his experience at Barcelona appears to have left him with enormous respect for the club's teenage superstar.
Can Lamine Yamal Really Reach Messi's Heights?
Comparing any young footballer to Lionel Messi comes with enormous expectations. Messi's achievements, including eight Ballon d’Or awards, have set a standard that may never be matched.
However, Yamal's technical ability, confidence, creativity and performances at such a young age have already made him a special talent to watch.
Rashford has made his opinion clear: he believes Yamal has something extraordinary.
But can the Barcelona wonderkid turn that potential into a career that rivals Messi's legendary achievements?
What do you think? Is Lamine Yamal genuinely the closest football has seen to Messi, or is it still too early to make that comparison?