Inter Milan legend in awe of Barcelona youngster – ‘An extraordinary player’ | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal delivered one of his best performances in Italy just weeks ago against Inter Milan, despite the bitter outcome of Barcelona’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League.

Among those who witnessed his display live from the stands was Javier Zanetti, former player and current vice president of the Nerazzurri.

Zanetti in awe of Lamine Yamal

In an interview with Flashscore (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Zanetti praised the Barcelona talent, whom he saw up close during the recent European tie.

“He is an incredible player. The truth is that he is a unique talent, very fast, whether he plays right or left. He is only 17 years old, he has already played more than 100 games. The truth is that he has a great future ahead of him,” said the Argentine legend.

When asked whether comparisons to Lionel Messi are excessive, Zanetti responded:

“At this time, yes, because Messi was the best for a long time. He was in the elite with a consistency that is very difficult and Leo always showed that, and Leo is the essence of football for me.

“If Lamine achieves that, with consistency, he will surely be on that podium. But today, the truth is that talking about him today and comparing him to Messi is very premature.”

Concluding, Zanetti had more praise for the 17-year-old Barcelona wonderkid, who finds himself in the conversation for the Ballon d’Or this year.

“He is different, with a lot of pace, with a lot of composure. We’re talking about a 17-year-old boy, but with a great personality. A player who always wants the ball. The truth is that Barcelona – I spoke to Laporta about it – have an extraordinary player,” he said.

Lamine showed all of these qualities when Spain took on France in the UEFA Nations League semi-final, with the teenage sensation scoring twice to help his team secure a 5-4 win and advance to the finals.