The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has confirmed that the widely shared photographs of football legend Lionel Messi bathing Spain star Lamine Yamal as a baby are authentic, putting to rest speculation that the images had been digitally manipulated.
UNICEF addressed the claims in a post on its official X account on Thursday after the photos went viral on social media, with some users questioning whether they had been altered.
According to the organisation, the images were taken more than 18 years ago during a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot featuring Messi, baby Yamal and his mother, Sheila.
"Yes, those photos you've seen are real," UNICEF said.
The organisation added that the meeting took place long before either could have imagined Yamal's rise to football stardom.
"More than 18 years ago, a baby named Lamine Yamal and his mom, Sheila, met Lionel Messi at a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot.
"Today, their achievements on the pitch inspire millions. Off the pitch, both Messi and Lamine Yamal use their voices and platforms as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors to support and advocate for children around the world.
"The goal? That every child survives, thrives, and fulfils their potential."
