'He's a beast of a talent' - Xavi sees unlimited potential in Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal

Following Barca's 3-1 win at Alaves on Saturday, coach Xavi lauded the performance and talent of winger Yamal. The former midfielder says the Spain international is so mature and has skills and quality very few possess.

He told reporters: "He is a beast of talent. At 16 years old. Very few appear in these conditions. How he works, how he fights, how he helps the side... Unless he gets the armband... he has already been a starter. He has no ceiling. I have made a specific plan with him. He makes a difference. We are facing something special. I highlight how he competes, he doesn't get tired. He runs many kilometres at high intensity. He leaves the opponent. I am very happy. He has defensive humility."

While it is still early days, Yamal could be the next big star from the Blaugrana's famed academy. The 2007-born talent has already made 32 appearances for Barca this season in all competitions, scoring three goals and bagging five assists along the way, and there appears to be so much more to come.

Yamal could next be in action for Barcelona, who leapfrogged Atletico Madrid into third with the victory, but Diego Simeone's team can retake that spot if they beat league leaders Real Madrid on Sunday. Barca then they host relegation-threatened Granada in another La Liga clash next week.