Lamine Yamal, a 15-year-old forward, became the youngest player in La Liga for Barcelona when he was introduced during their 4-0 victory over Real Betis on Saturday.
He was reportedly the second-youngest player in Catalan club history, trailing only Albert Almasque in 1902, who competed in the Macaya Cup at the age of 13 years, 11 months, and six days.
At 15 years, 9 months, and 16 days old, the attacker made his debut by taking Pablo Gavi’s place during the four minutes of added time.
“He doesn’t seem like he’s 15 years old, he’s more mature than his years. I’ve seen him train and he’s shown it,” he added.
“He played 10 minutes, but did well, he can mark an era at the club.”
Meanwhile, Yamal, who made a standout cameo, had a shot that was on target as Barcelona regained the advantage over the opposition by 11 points.
Speaking about Yamal being subjected to comparison with Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati, who also made their debuts at young ages for the club, Xavi told Movistar, “I told him to try things and he did.”
“At 15 years old, just imagine it. He’s a special player, he could score, assist, he had confidence. When you see it in training you realise he could be big,” he added.
With a scooped pass over the top to the French winger, Yamal also gave Ousmane Dembele a chance.
“We were talking about this on the bench, when I was 15 I think I was playing for my neighbourhood team,” Barca winger Raphinha told Movistar.
“And seeing him come on in this stadium, with all these people, is incredible.”
“It would have been better if he scored, but he will score at a better moment and he will be very important for the club,” he added.
