Messi, Yamal’s 19-year-old photos go viral before World Cup final

Viral photographs of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi and Spain’s rising star Lamine Yamal, taken nearly 19 years ago, have resurfaced on social media ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.

The images date back to 2007, when a 20-year-old Messi took part in a charity photo shoot alongside six-month-old Lamine Yamal. The campaign was jointly organised by FC Barcelona, UNICEF, and a local Barcelona newspaper to promote child welfare.

During the photo shoot, Messi was photographed gently bathing baby Yamal in a small plastic tub, creating a series of heartwarming images that have since become iconic.

According to international media reports, Yamal was selected for the campaign through a random draw. Photographer Joan Monfort, who captured the memorable images, recalled that Messi was very shy at the time and was unsure how to hold such a young baby during the session.

Nearly two decades later, the two footballers are set to share the pitch as rivals. Yamal has emerged as one of the brightest young talents in world football, while Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.