'He enjoys it' – ex-Barcelona boss Xavi on Yamal comparisons to Messi

Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández has opened up on the endless comparisons between teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and footballing icon Lionel Messi.

The legendary midfielder has acknowledged the clear psychological traits that tie the two together while cautioning the media about the burden such tags can place on a developing player.

Writing in a personal feature for The Athletic, Xavi explained that the true similarities between the two academy graduates lie deep within their core personalities and unwavering self-belief, rather than their specific movements on the pitch.

Having famously handed Yamal his professional Barcelona debut at the tender age of 15, the former coach knows firsthand that both stars share a unique, rare confidence required to completely dictate the outcome of high-stakes matches.

"Lamine knows he's different... just as Leo knew he was different," Xavi noted, before boldly predicting: "The next 15 to 20 years belong to Lamine, if he wants."

Despite his glowing assessment, the World Cup winner remained clear about the potential dangers of hype, insisting that comparing any young prospect to an absolute icon can be counterproductive.

However, Xavi also highlighted that Yamal's joyful approach to the game insulates him from external pressures, allowing him to thrive on the world stage without fear.

Xavi elaborated on the teenager's elite mindset, stating, "There are many similarities with Leo. But I don't think we're doing the boy any favours by comparing him to the greatest of all time. Even so, I don't think he minds. He wants the ball. He wants to play football. He enjoys it."

Messi and Yamal could face off in the World Cup final, with Spain and Argentina on different paths in the knockout stage.