The photo, taken in 2007, captured a charity photoshoot for FC Barcelona. Photographer Joan Monfort explained that this was an annual event organized by UNICEF and the sports daily Diario Sport. Families with young children participated in a draw for the opportunity to have their pictures taken with Barcelona players at Camp Nou.

The Yamal family, residing in the Rocafonda neighborhood of Mataro, was among the lucky households chosen. At that time, Messi was a promising young player, not yet a big star like Ronaldinho, Deco, or Samuel Eto'o.

Monfort stated he did not realize the baby in the photo was Yamal until a colleague informed him in 2024. Yamal's father, Mounir Nasraoui, had previously reposted the photo on social media. "Reporters at the Diario Sport's Sports department were also surprised by this information," Monfort recounted.

Messi bathed Yamal in 2007 at Camp Nou. *Photo: Sport*

The photo was widely shared once more as the World Cup 2026 began. Many social media users commented on the interesting coincidence of the two individuals potentially facing each other on the field.

Some likened the moment to Messi "passing on his talent" to Yamal when he was still in the bathtub. Comedian Trevor Noah also referenced this moment during a World Cup commentary session. "I can't believe this is real. Imagine this moment. The two playing in the same World Cup, and the boy from all those years ago is now one of the best players in the tournament," Noah said.

Currently, Spain has secured a spot in the final after a 2-0 victory over France. Argentina is also in the semifinals and is preparing to face England. If Argentina wins, Messi will have the opportunity to face Yamal in the match for the golden cup.

Lamine Yamal at a press conference before Spain's match against France in the World Cup 2026 semifinals at Dallas Stadium, Arlington, Texas, US on 14/7. *Photo: Reuters*

Yamal is widely considered Messi's successor striker at Barcelona. The 19-year-old forward developed from the La Masia academy. He plays the same wing forward position and is consistently compared to the Argentine player due to his dribbling ability. Midfielder Gavi commented: "After Lionel Messi, he is our best player."

Nhat Minh (According to Today, The Athletic)