Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez recently made headlines when he stated that 16-year-old Lamine Yamal has “flashes” of Lionel Messi after scoring the winning goal against Mallorca. While it is true that there are some similarities between Yamal and Messi, Xavi believes that it is unfair to compare any player to the former Barcelona star. He mentioned that being compared to Messi has not benefited any player in the past, and it is not a good idea to put that kind of pressure on young talents like Yamal.
Despite Xavi’s reservations about comparing Yamal to Messi, it is undeniable that the young talent has been making a name for himself at Barcelona. With six goals and seven assists in his debut season, Yamal is quickly becoming one of the key players in the team. Xavi commended Yamal for his performance against Mallorca, highlighting that even at 16 years old, he was able to make a significant impact on the game.
The Rise of Pau Cubarsí
Yamal was not the only teenager to impress on the field, as Pau Cubarsí, a 17-year-old defender, also caught Xavi’s attention. Despite his young age, Cubarsí displayed intelligence and composure during the match, going up against experienced strikers and holding his ground. Xavi praised Cubarsí for his defensive abilities and his confidence on the ball, stating that the young player is performing like a seasoned captain.
Barcelona’s victory over Mallorca marked their third consecutive clean sheet, with Xavi noting that the team has significantly improved since he announced his departure at the end of the season. Despite missing a first-half penalty, Barcelona showed resilience and competitiveness throughout the game, ultimately securing three important points that kept them in the LaLiga title race.
As Barcelona prepares to face Napoli in the Champions League, Xavi remains optimistic about the team’s chances. The recent win against Mallorca has boosted the team’s confidence, and Xavi believes that maintaining a positive attitude is crucial, especially in challenging circumstances. With the first leg against Napoli ending in a draw, Barcelona will be looking to capitalize on their recent success and continue their pursuit of silverware in the Champions League.
Barcelona’s young talents have been making waves under Xavi’s guidance, with players like Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí showcasing their skills and potential on the field. While comparisons to legendary players like Lionel Messi can be overwhelming, Xavi’s emphasis on individual growth and team performance highlights the importance of nurturing young talent in the world of football.
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