Lamine Yamal: Pic of Barcelona Star Meeting Messi Resurfaces After Stunning La Liga Display

• Lamine Yamal has lit up La Liga since his debut for Barcelona against Real Betis
• The 16-year-old has grown to become a mainstay of the reigning league champs
• An image of the youngster meeting Lionel Messi has sent the internet into a tizzy

Lamine Yamal has continued to light up the headlines since making his La Liga debut in Barcelona's victory against Real Betis.

The 16-year-old La Masia graduate was again at the centre of the Catalans' second league win against Villarreal at the Estadio La Ceramica.

Yamal, who set a new La Liga record during the game, was instrumental to a comeback win after he set up Gavi for his opening goal in the seven-goal thriller.

The youngster, who struck the woodwork with his 56th-minute attempt, has since many reactions from football fans globally and a few have tipped him to step into the shoes of Lionel Messi at Barcelona.

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Amid the frenzy, an image of the Spanish forward meeting the Argentine veteran has surfaced on social media.

The picture - captioned 'When Leo Messi met the future GOAT' - has attracted several reactions from fans of Barcelona and opposition supporters, who seem to agree about the sheer genius of Yamal.

Lamine Yamal sets new record

At 16 years and 45 days, the Barcelona winger set a new record for the youngest assist-maker in La Liga this century. His delightful cross, which was met by Gavi, set up an enthraling seven-goal thriller at Villarreal.

Yamal, who featured for 76 minutes of the game, drew praise once again from his coach, Xavi Hernandez. Speaking after the game, the manager said, per Marca:

"My expectations [for Yamal] are very high. He’s a starter not because of the coach’s whim. His decision-making is almost always correct. He’s intelligent. He’s exceptional."

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Xavi added his wish to see Yamal represent Spain at a national level but admitted the winger had not spoken to him about his plans.

"I hope he stays at Barcelona for many years. He has the potential to make a mark. But with patience. I don’t think there will be management issues. He’s delighted and happy. He’s humble, works hard, loves football... I see him ready to play. His age surprises me: just turned 16."

Lamine Yamal earns standing ovation

Sports Brief also reported on Yamal earning a standing ovation from Villarreal fans after his electrifying performance for Barcelona in their thrilling seven-goal contest at the Estadio de la Ceramica.

After playing a role in the Catalans' fourth goal, Xavi decided to substitute him. As he made his way to the bench, he was greeted with an enthusiastic standing ovation from fans - mostly of the opposition team.