(CNN) — Back in 2007, in the months before Lamine Yamal was born, the first iPhone was released and Lionel Messi was already announcing himself as one of the greatest footballing talents ever.
Fast forward to 2023 and smartphones have taken over the world, Messi has won the World Cup and it was Yamal’s turn to announce himself to the footballing world, becoming Barcelona’s youngest debutant in La Liga.
Aged 15 years, 9 months and 16 days, Yamal entered the fray after 86 minutes as a substitute for Gavi during Barcelona’s 4-0 victory against Real Betis Saturday.
According to Barcelona’s website, only three younger players have represented the club — Armand Martínez-Sagi in 1920 (14 years, 6 months and 16 days), Carles Comamala in 1903 (14 years, 7 months and 5 months), and Paulino Alcántara in 1912 (15 years, 4 months and 18 days).
And, although the result was decided when Yamal ran out onto the pitch, he still made an impact, with only a brilliant save from goalkeeper Rui Silva stopping him from scoring Barcelona’s fifth goal of the night.
“Seeing him come on in front of the fans was incredible,” Raphinha added. “It would have been even better if he scored, but I am sure he will get one sooner rather than later.”
Raphinha added Barça’s fourth goal of the night, which along with goals from Andreas Christensen and Robert Lewandowski, and an own goal, sealed a victory that takes the Blaugrana 11 points clear at the top of La Liga with just six games to play.
The-CNN-Wire
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