Xavi Hernández, one of the living legends of FC Barcelona, has generated controversy with its recent statements on Lamine Yamal, the young promise of the club. According to former Culé, the 17 -year -old, despite his undeniable talent, should not be compared to Lionel Messi, considered by many the best player of all time. Xavi argues that these comparisons are premature and could generate unnecessary pressure on the adolescent’s shoulders, who is still in the process of consolidating in elite football.
Lamine Yamal has broken into the football panorama with an impressive force. His debut with Barça’s first team and his outstanding performances have captured the attention of fans and experts equally. With an ability to overflow, an exceptional game vision and unusual maturity for its age, Yamal has been nicknamed by some such as the “New Messi.” However, Xavi believes that these comparisons are unfair, not only for Yamal, but also for the Messi Legacy, whose career has been unrepeatable. The former mediocampist emphasizes that each player must forge his own path and that Yamal has the potential to be a star, but under his own identity.
In addition, Xavi has suggested that the club should consider changing the Yamal T -shirt number. Currently, the young man carries the Dorsal 27, but some sectors of the fans and the press have speculated on the possibility of inheriting a more iconic number in the future, such as the 10 that left Messi. For Xavi, these types of decisions could further feed comparisons and distract the player from their development. In his opinion, the approach should be allowing Yamal to grow without the shadow of excessive expectations.
Xavi’s posture has generated mixed reactions. On the one hand, some fans support their vision, arguing that protecting Yamal from media pressure is crucial for its progress. On the other hand, there are those who believe that comparisons are inevitable, given the similar style of play and the immediate impact of the team. The truth is that Yamal has proven to have an exceptional talent, and his future seems brilliant, regardless of the debates about his shirt or his place in the history of football.
FC Barcelona, meanwhile, has not issued official comments on Xavi’s statements. The club seems focused on nourishing Yamal’s talent, gradually integrating it into the first team while protecting it from excessive expectations. The directive and the coaching staff know that they have a jewel in their hands, and the challenge will be to guide it to reach its maximum potential without succumbing to the pressure. Meanwhile, the world
