Messi was photographed bathing a five-month-old Yamal for a UNICEF campaign in 2007, an image that has now gone viral since his rise in the Barcelona squad and the world stage.
The picture came to people’s attention in 2024, when Yamal’s dad posted them on social media ahead of the European Championship final between England and Spain.
Now, as fans prepare to watch the pair compete in the World Cup final this Sunday, Messi has commented on the image and revealed how tough the clash may be given Spain’s quality.
"He (Lamine) is now one of the most important figures in world football and, at just 19, has his whole career ahead of him. He has a great chance to achieve something historic on Sunday, and we will do everything we can to make sure that doesn't happen this time.
"But in the end, I just want to wish him all the best."
"I really enjoyed seeing that photo again; it's incredible how life works. I took a photo with him when he was just a baby and now we're both competing at a World Cup," he said.
"Honestly, it seems crazy, but he is already one of the best in the world, no doubt. I wish him luck, especially because what's good for him is also good for Barcelona."
"We'll try to play a good game so that he (Lamine) can't perform at his best. We know it will be tough. Both he and Spain are in great form. They have fantastic players and play incredible football.”
NFL legend Tom Brady called the image “prophetic” and many fans believe the same as the pair face off for a chance to become world champions.