'He has this magic' - Barcelona chief Deco blown away by Lamine Yamal after teenager's dazzling season for Hansi Flick's side

Yamal has enjoyed a stunning season, scoring 18 goals and bagging 25 assists for Barcelona in 55 appearances in all competitions. Now, Deco has explained how the 17-year-old "amazes everyone" and is so mature for his age.

He said, via Globo: "He is one of those players who appear every year and amaze everyone. He has this ability not only technically, but he is also very mature for his age. And he also has this magic, not only in terms of what he is like on the field. But, perhaps because of his age, he identifies a lot with the young audience. It makes him a player who not only moves people when they see his game, but is also creating a story."

Less than a year on from Yamal being named the best young player in the world at the 2024 Ballon d'Or, the teenager is in contention to win the Golden Ball at the 2025 event. The Spain international played a huge role in their La Liga and Copa del Rey success and the winger is only likely to get better.

Spanish wonderkid Yamal, who has put pen to paper on a new lucrative contract with Barcelona until 2031, will now enjoy a well-earned break before returning for pre-season duty for Flick's team in July.