Barcelona coach Xavi was happy to hand Lamine Yamal his debut in victory over Real Betis.
At 15, Yamal becomes Barca's youngester ever LaLiga debutant.
Xavi said, "I told him to try things and he did. At 15 years old, just imagine it... He is special and he could have even scored tonight, but [Silva] saved.
"He played with confidence and he showed what he is about. He has no fear and bags of talent. Some of his passes in the final third were really good."
Xavi was asked about comparisons with Leo Messi and added: "He's a similar player because he has that innate talent in the final third which is difficult to find.
"Lamine doesn't seem like a 15-year-old, he's very mature. He's ready [to play] and he is training well. He can mark an era at this club as part of this team."