Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has spoken about his final conversation with Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal before bringing his spell with the Spanish club to an end.

The England international disclosed that he had a conversation with the highly rated winger shortly before departing Barcelona, during which he told him that he was the most talented player among the outstanding footballers Rashford had shared the pitch with.

Rashford spent a season at Barcelona, helping the club win both the LaLiga title and the Spanish Super Cup before returning to Old Trafford. Despite leaving the Spanish side, he has maintained contact with some of the players he worked alongside, including Yamal.

The Manchester United forward also revealed that he had spoken with the teenager before the recent Ballon d’Or awards ceremony. Speaking about their discussions, Rashford clarified that their conversation did not take place after the awards but rather before the event and ahead of his departure from Barcelona.

“I talked to Lamine, not after the awards but before. And before I left Barcelona,” Rashford said, according to the Manchester Evening News.

He went on to explain the message he delivered to Yamal, praising the young Barcelona star above the other gifted footballers he has played with during his career.

“I told him I have played with some talented, talented players, but he’s above them all,” Rashford added.

The comments underline the high regard in which Rashford holds Yamal, who has continued to attract attention for his performances despite his young age. Rashford’s praise also reflects the impression the Barcelona forward made on him during their time together at the club.

Rashford has now returned to Manchester United, where attention is turning to the club’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Aston Villa this weekend. His revelation about Yamal comes ahead of that encounter, as the England international prepares for the next stage of his career following his season in Spain.