'Piece of s***t' - Ex-Barcelona compares himself to wonderkid Lamine Yamal and backs teenager to become the 'best player in the world for many years'

At just 17, Yamal has already reached incredible heights having established himself as one of Barcelona's best players and played a key role in Spain's Euro 2024 success last summer.

The Barcelona academy graduate has been tipped to become the best in the world, with team-mate Raphinha going so far as to say he will win the Ballon d'Or at least three times. Nolito, who joined Barcelona in 2008 and made his senior debut under Pep Guardiola, sees a long period of time at the top of the game in Yamal's future as he compared himself to the teenager.

"I was a piece of sh*t compared to Lamine," he said on Cadena SER. "Right now he is at a point where he could be the best player in the world for many years. It's a pleasure to see him play, it's a wonder and a joy for all football fans, and especially for the Barca fans."

While Barca are unbeaten in their last five matches, the Catalan club were left frustrated in a feisty 1-1 draw against Getafe at the weekend. Yamal and his co-stars will be looking for a better outcome when they face Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday.