Barcelona legend David Villa waxes lyrical over teenage wonderkid: “He’s unlike anyone else”

Barcelona’s La Masia academy has produced several young talents over the years. Some have gone on to make it big in Catalonia, others in clubs across the globe, and thus earned the academy the stature of being one of the best in the business.

In recent years, La Masia has gifted the world of football with the likes of Gavi, Alejandro Balde, Ansu Fati, and most recently, Lamine Yamal.

The latter has been the talk of the town this season after his explosive rise to prominence under Xavi Hernandez.

The 16-year-old has participated in all ten of Barcelona’s league games this season, scoring one goal and providing one assist in the process. Further, he averages 1.6 successful dribbles per game and has created four big chances.

David Villa hails Yamal

Former Barcelona and Spain legend, David Villa, recently opened up about Lamine Yamal in an interview with beIN Sports. The ex-striker had only words of praise for the Barcelona youngster and called him a special talent.

“What qualities doesn’t he have? When a 16-year-old boy is capable of playing on a La Liga pitch, with the Barça jersey and at this level, we’re talking of someone with a special talent,” Villa said.

“He’s unlike anyone else, he’s special just to demonstrate all that so young.”

Need to be cautious with Yamal

However, Villa went on to insist that Barcelona and Xavi Hernandez must be careful with how they utilise the youngster, considering his tender age.

“We have to take care of him (Lamine) because he is only 16 years old but he is a unique talent who has come to establish himself and we will benefit from him for many years.”

Yamal is expected to start later today when the Blaugranas take on Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League.

With players like Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski missing the clash through injury, there will be pressure on his shoulders to create something special and carry the team’s forward line.