Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez praised the young debutant Lamine Yamal as he impressed everyone in the Barca shirt. The manager also compared him with club legend Lionel Messi.
Lamine Yamal made his Barcelona debut against La Liga side Real Betis at just 15 years of age. Despite playing only about 6 remaining minutes, the Spanish footballer presented enough that had the fans wanting more.
The 15-year-old forward is one of the youngest players to ever represent Barcelona.
Barcelona easily beat Real Betis with four goals thanks to goals from Andreas Christensen, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and an own goal from Guido Rodríguez.
After the game, manager Xavi spoke to the press where he admired the youngster for his mentality and confidence.
“I told him to try things and he did. At 15 years old, just imagine it… He is special and he could have even scored tonight,t saved.”
Xavi added: “He played with confidence and he showed what he is about. He has no fear and bags of talent. Some of his passes in the final third were really good.”
The manager compared Lamine Yamal’s abilities with former Barcelona legend Lionel Messi as well as current star Ansu Fati.
“He’s a similar player because he has that innate talent in the final third which is difficult to find.”
When asked about his (Yamal) age, the manager replied:
“Lamine doesn’t seem like a 15-year-old, he’s very mature.”
Xavi also said that Lamine Yamal is ‘ready’ and he can be a regular in the squad in the coming future.
“He’s ready and he is training well. He can mark an era at this club as part of this team.”
Barcelona superstar Raphinha also gave his view on Lamine Yamal:
“When I was 15 years old I was playing in my local team. It’s incredible what he has done. He has a lot of quality and he came very close to scoring a goal. It was a pity, but I’m sure he will do it sooner or later,”
The young Spaniard has a long way to go. He will have to compete against strong opponents in the shape of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. Hopefully, he might get a little assist if Lionel Messi returns to Barcelona this summer.
