Ivan Rakitic has been talking about Lamine Yamal after watching the teenager superstar become a key player for Barcelona at the age of 17.
The former Barcelona midfielder also revealed what Xavi once told him about Yamal when the forward was still coming through the ranks at the club.
“I love him not so much for his assists or his magic, but above all because I think he has spectacular football intelligence,” he told ope.
“I remember that when I spoke to Xavi about him for the first time, he said to me: ‘Ivan he is so intelligent that he knows when to stop an attack, when he has to come back, when he has to go around again...’ and that’s not easy.
“Apart from the fact that he is already very decisive for his team and for the national team. I think he has an intelligence far above what those players usually have and he is a player who needs joy, happiness and to keep smiling, which we all enjoy.”
Rakitic also took time out to praise Pedri and Dani Olmo who have also impressed for Hansi Flick’s side this season.
“I’m not surprised by Pedri , because I’ve enjoyed it and suffered on the pitch, and I know the quality he has,” he added.
“I’m a big fan [of Olmo]. He’s very complete, he knows how to score, assist, he’s everywhere. When some people are worried about the ball, he goes.”
Olmo is currently sidelined with injury once again but Pedri and Yamal are expected to feature next time out against Atletico in the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg.