Barcelona midfielder Gavi has hailed Lamine Yamal as the best player in the world after Lionel Messi, following the teenager’s outstanding performance in the 5-1 Copa del Rey victory against Real Betis on Wednesday.Yamal was unstoppable, scoring one goal, assisting two others, and having another ruled out for offside. His efforts helped Barcelona secure a spot in Monday's quarterfinal draw.

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At just 17 years old, Yamal has already scored nine goals and provided 13 assists in 24 matches this season, cementing his status as one of football's brightest talents."Yes, he is," Gavi told reporters when asked if Yamal is already the best player in the game. "Well, after Lionel Messi, he's the best.

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"Yamal, who helped Spain win the European Championship last summer, had an impressive season last year, finishing eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings.

also won the Kopa Trophy and the Golden Boy award, both recognizing the best young player in the world.The young star has cemented his place in Barcelona’s first team, making over 70 appearances so far. On Wednesday night, he was a constant threat to

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Betis.After Gavi scored the opening goal, Yamal delivered a stunning lobbed pass to set up Jules Koundé for Barcelona’s second goal. Yamal created another chance for Koundé, but the goal was disallowed following a lengthy VAR review for offside.Later in the match, Yamal thought he had scored Barcelona’s third, but VAR ruled it out for offside once again.

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However, he showcased his brilliance with a solo run from his own box, leading to Raphinha’s goal.Substitute Ferran Torres added a fourth goal before Yamal finally found the net, finishing confidently after receiving a pass from Fermín López. Vitor Roque, on loan from Barcelona to Betis, scored a late penalty for Betis as a consolation.

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"You know, Gavi's very emotional, so I say yes as well," Barça coach Hansi Flick said in a news conference when asked if he agreed with Gavi's take on Yamal. "You can see it. I think in great matches you see big talent and he's showed it many times. He's on a really good way. But we have to take care about him."

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