'Behind only Messi' — Gavi calls Barcelona teammate best footballer in the world

Barcelona midfielder Gavi has praised his teammate Lamine Yamal as one of the best players in the world, second only to Lionel Messi.

Gavi's comments came after both players scored in Barcelona's 5-1 win over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday.

Yamal was a Ballon d'Or nominee last year, and his performances this season have continued to improve, leading calls for him to become the youngest-ever winner of the prestigious award in 2025.

When asked if Lamine is the best in the world, Gavi replied:

"For me, he is the best in the world, behind only Messi."

"He is very good, and the best at the moment."

However, Gavi was quick to point out that comparing Lamine to Messi is unfair, as Messi is a unique player.

"It is foolish to compare him to Messi, because there will only be one," Gavi said.

"He's unique, just like there will only be one Xavi, an [Andres] Iniesta or [Sergio] Busquets. We have to make our own way."

With Barcelona advancing to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals, the team will now shift their focus to the Spanish top flight, where they will face Getafe on Saturday evening.

The Catalan giants are returning to the form they showed at the start of the season as they look to claim all trophies on offer.