‘Truly exceptional’ – Pep Guardiola lauds Barcelona teenage prodigy | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal has been the talk of the town since the beginning of the season, and rightfully so, for the player has successfully normalised the level at which he is operating for a 17-year-old star.

From being considered one of the brightest young prospects in the sport to now being acclaimed as one of the best players on the planet, life has come fast at Yamal.

Still just 17, he is even seen as one of the two top candidates to win the Ballon d’Or, which would be an unbelievable accomplishment for a player so young.

Guardiola’s thoughts

Speaking to the media in a recent interview (h/t SPORT), former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola was asked to compare Lamine Yamal to Lionel Messi, especially given his accomplishments at such a young age.

“He has to build his career first. And when it’s over, we’ll see what level he’s at,” he began saying.

“If at such a young age some people are starting to compare him to Messi, then my God! He must be a truly exceptional player,” he added, lauding Yamal’s talent.

Pep Guardiola has asked for patience. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Elaborating on the youngster’s level and comparisons with the greatest player of all time, Guardiola said,

“If that many people see anything in him, then he is undoubtedly very talented. But let him live his stage, let him make his career,” he added.

Guardiola hopes for the best

Guardiola then went on to hope and pray for the teenager to conquer the same peaks his disciple Messi did and for a long and successful career ahead.

“We hope, in the end, that it will be as long as Messi’s career was, and to be as successful as Messi’s career was.”

Finally, the Manchester City coach opened up on how consistency would be key to deciding how great Yamal becomes as the sheer brilliance of Messi for coming up clutch week after week for close to two decades.

“To play every three days, every three days, every three days, for 15 years. This proves continuity.”

“It is the most difficult thing in the world of football. But what it shows so far, I say clearly: [He is] Exceptional. Anyone can see that,” he added.