The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has confirmed that the widely circulated photographs of Lionel Messi bathing an infant Lamine Yamal are authentic, dismissing speculation that the images were digitally manipulated.
The photos, which have gone viral across social media in recent days, have generated widespread discussion, with some users questioning their authenticity. UNICEF clarified that the images were taken more than 18 years ago during a charity fundraising photoshoot featuring Messi, baby Yamal and his mother, Sheila.
In a statement, UNICEF said the photographs were genuine and formed part of a campaign organised to support children.
“Yes, the photos you’ve seen are real,” the organisation stated.
UNICEF explained that over 18 years ago, a baby named Lamine Yamal and his mother participated in a fundraising photoshoot alongside Messi.
The organisation noted that both football stars have since gone on to inspire millions on the field while also serving as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, using their influence to advocate for children’s rights and welfare worldwide.
“Our goal is to ensure every child survives, thrives and reaches their full potential. We are proud to have both Messi and Lamine Yamal as part of our UNICEF family,” the statement added.
UNICEF also credited Spanish photographer Joan Monfort for capturing the memorable images during a charity calendar project, which showed a young Messi carefully bathing baby Yamal in a small plastic tub to raise funds for the organisation.
The photographs resurfaced as Yamal’s remarkable rise with Barcelona and the Spanish national team attracted global attention, leaving many football fans surprised to discover he had appeared alongside the Argentine legend as an infant.
The revelation has attracted even greater interest because both Messi and Yamal now serve as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, with many supporters describing the images as a symbolic link between two generations of football icons.
The renewed attention comes ahead of Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, where Messi’s Argentina are set to face Yamal’s Spain in one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.
