Barcelona prodigy Yamal explains why it's crucial for him to avoid comparisons to Messi

This week, Yamal received nominations for both the prestigious Ballon d'Or and the Kopa Trophy.

He recalled: "Playing on the street took away my fear of playing with older people. I was 11 or 12 years old and my rivals were 20. That made me lose my fear, enjoy and be able to play against anyone.

"I am a boy, I do like to be at a higher level, as I happened in cadets, because I do not like to relax or go overboard. I like it whenever it's more difficult. I prefer to just play, to play everything and not have it easy."

On comparisons with Lionel Messi, Yamal also said: "The most important thing is not to notice. Compared to the best in history means you are doing things right. It doesn't bother me, but I'm trying to be me. The most important thing is to have a legacy."