Rio Ferdinand had high praise for Lamine Yamal as he analysed Barcelona’s dramatic 3-3 Champions League draw with Inter Milan.

At just 17 years old, Yamal marked his 100th appearance for Barcelona in style, further cementing his status as one of football’s brightest young stars. He scored a breathtaking solo goal in the first half, weaving past five defenders before curling a flawless shot past Yann Sommer — a moment already drawing comparisons to legends like Lionel Messi and Eden Hazard.

Ferdinand was full of admiration, describing Yamal as “truly unbelievable” and posting on X during the game that the teenager is “on another level to any player currently playing in the top five leagues.”

Speaking at full time, Ferdinand expanded, analysing Yamal’s technique: “In the first half, we had one of the best seats in the house, just behind where Yamal was doing his damage and mesmerising the whole stadium.

“He was using every part of his foot today, the different details, different ways he was moving to receive the ball, every facet of his game today was on show.

“It was truly quite beautiful to be here and be a part of.”

“17 years old, 100 appearances, the way he takes over games is great to see.

“He can affect the game in so many ways, through playmaking, by running past people and eliminating players. To do that makes him a very special player.”