15 year old makes Barcelona debut, creates la Liga history!

On 29 April 2023, Lamine Yamal made history by becoming the youngest-ever player to debut for Barcelona in La Liga, at just 15 years of age.

This made Yamal the second youngest player to make his debut in all competitions.

In a statement, the club said that Yamal was only next to Albert Almasque who was just 13 years of age in 1902 when he played the Copa Mayaca.

Yamal came on in the 83rd minute of the game against Real Betis at Camp Nou, replacing fellow La Masia graduate Gavi.

Although he only played a few minutes, Yamal impressed with his quick footwork and confidence on the ball, coming close to scoring himself and almost setting up a goal for Ousmane Dembele.

Before his debut, Yamal had already caught the attention of Barcelona head coach Xavi, who described him as having “bags of talent” and compared him to two of the club’s greatest players, Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati.

“He’s a similar player because he has that innate talent in the final third which is difficult to find,” Xavi said.

“Lamine doesn’t seem like a 15-year-old, he’s very mature. He’s ready (to play) and he is training well. He can mark an era at this club as part of this team.”

Yamal’s natural position is left-footed right-winger.

He had been named in a Barcelona squad for the first time the previous week, for the match against Atletico, but did not feature.

He was also in the squad for the midweek loss against Rayo Vallecano. Despite his young age, Yamal has already represented Spain at the Under-19 level.

Barcelona is currently 11 points clear at the top of La Liga with six matches left to play.

Xavi’s side is well on their way to securing another league title, and Yamal’s debut has added another exciting chapter to the club’s rich history of producing talented young players.

With his impressive debut performance and Xavi’s high praise, Yamal could be a player to watch in the coming years as he looks to establish himself as a key part of Barcelona’s first team.

Watch his historic debut!