Very often have the greatest Barcelona players emerged from the ranks of the Catalan club’s academy, and while some have ended up reaching much higher heights than those who came through with them, the academy of La Masia continues its proud tradition of producing elite talents.
However, much more uncommon is such a groundbreaking performance from a youngster that it merits an ovation from the Barcelona home fans, something that 16-year-old Lamine Yamal managed to accomplish during the game against Cadiz for matchday two of La Liga at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium as per Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.
His performance against Cadiz CF saw the young prodigy showcase his great dribbling prowess when let loose as he almost won Barcelona a penalty in the 5th minute of the game after leaving Iza Carcelen in the dust following his dazzling run in the box. However, it would not be awarded and it would also not be the last time the youngster would unsettle Cadiz.
Already having become the youngest ever La Liga starter in history at the age of 16 years and 38 days, overcoming the record held previously by Fabrice Olinga whose age was 16 years and 112 days when he made his start in the Spanish first division, the Barcelona youngster would not stop at any cost to repay the faith put in him by the Barcelona coaches.
Supplying great passes and accurate crosses to his teammates, he was at times left disappointed by the end result of those chances created by him, he did not let any mistakes or disappointments stop him from continuing to play his best game and he showed maturity well beyond his years to continue impressive all those present to watch his display.
Moreover, in the 29th minute, the 16-year-old Barcelona gem even had a great opportunity to score in a 1 v 1, but despite what was arguably a brilliant attempt at goal, Cadiz keeper Ledesma produced an even more brilliant save to deny the Barcelona youngster.
While he remains extremely young, Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez does his own best to keep him away from any high expectations or unnecessary comparisons to former greats in order to sustain his development without the unwanted pressure.
The player still did put on a display that prompted the fans in the Montjuic Stadium to give him an ovation when he was finally subbed off for Ferran Torres in the 85th minute, becoming the first Barcelona player this season to receive one in the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium.
