Marcus Rashford believes that teenager Lamine Yamal is the most gifted young footballer he has ever shared a pitch with.
Rashford revealed his admiration for the Spaniard following Barcelona’s dominant 3-0 win over Mallorca on Saturday (August 16).
At only 18, Yamal played a starring role as the Blaugrana sealed a domestic treble, cementing his place among the leading contenders for the Ballon d’Or.
The winger was instrumental to his side’s success last season and has started the new campaign in similar form, bagging his first goal with a brilliant curling strike as Barca eased past Mallorca.
What did Rashford say about Yamal?
Rashford, who made his competitive debut for the Blaugrana against Mallorca following a loan move from Manchester United, admitted he has been stunned by the teenager’s quality.
“He's the most talented player I've ever played with for his age,” Rashford said to ESPN.
The former United man also stated that perhaps only a young Ronaldo Nazario could match up to Yamal’s ability at such a young age.
“I haven't played with, or seen, anyone with the impact he has on the game. Maybe Ronaldo Nazario.
“To have that influence on the pitch at such a young age and on such a consistent basis is incredible. He has a long career ahead of him, and I hope he maintains his level and even improves.
“He's a top talent, a top player. The most surprising thing is how mature he is for his age, how he thinks and plays. He's way beyond his years. It's exciting to play with him, and with others too.”
The 20-year-old attacker has already drawn comparisons with Barcelona all-time-great and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi.
While Yamal certainly has a long way to go before reaching Messi’s level, his impressive performances have undoubtedly impressed Rashford, who believes he will most definitely collect football’s biggest individual honour at some point during his career.
“Yes, [he can win the Ballon d’Or], definitely,” Rashford added. “If he doesn't win it this year, he will win it in the future.
“[Ousmane] Dembele, Raphinha, they all deserve it. It's hard to pick one, but they're all mature and have had a fantastic season. Lamine is so young that he's sure to win it.”
Yamal is expected to go head-to-head with Mohamed Salah, Ousmane Dembele and fellow Barca teammate Raphinha for this year’s award, but if Rashford’s early impressions are anything to go by, it may only be a matter of time before the teenager is crowned the best in the world.
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