Lionel Messi was already establishing himself as one of the greatest footballing talents ever in 2007 at Barcelona, just months before Lamine Yamal was born.
Fast forward to 2023, Messi has won the World Cup, and it was Yamal’s turn to announce himself to the footballing world, becoming Barcelona’s youngest debutant in La Liga.
Yamal, who is 15 years, 9 months, and 16 days old, replaced Gavi in the 86th minute of Saturday’s 4-0 win for Barcelona over Real Betis.
In doing so, Yamal made history by becoming the youngest to ever play for Barcelona breaking the record previously held by teammate Gavi and Xavi has tipped the forward for great things.
The Barca boss even likened Yamal’s quality in the final third to Messi.
“I told him to try things and he did,” he said. “At 15 years old, just imagine it… He is special and he could have even scored tonight, but Rui Silva saved,” said Xavi.
15-year-old Lamine Yamal becomes the youngest player to EVER debut for Barcelona 🚨👏 pic.twitter.com/BhFRrLBNqn
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 29, 2023
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“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.
“He’s a similar player because he has that innate talent in the final third which is difficult to find.
“Lamine doesn’t seem like a 15-year-old, he’s very mature. He’s ready [to play] and he is training well. He can mark an era at this club as part of this team.”
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