Laporta Praises Yamal, Highlights La Masia Resurgence

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has praised 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, calling him the best player in the world today and highlighting his rise as a graduate of the La Masia academy. Yamal recently signed a long-term contract with Barcelona and was given the No. 10 shirt, intensifying comparisons to Lionel Messi. Laporta, along with football figures like Sergio Aguero and Cristiano Ronaldo, has urged caution to protect Yamal from excessive pressure. Yamal's standout performances, including scoring twice against FC Seoul during the preseason tour in Asia, have established his significance to the team. The resurgence of La Masia talents, such as Yamal and Marc Casadó, has been vital to Barcelona's recent successes as the club navigates economic difficulties. Laporta maintains that Messi is the greatest in history but recognizes Yamal as a unique generational talent deserving careful guidance.