New Barça star Ansu Fati already has a better record than Lionel Messi

There are many iconic photos in the world of football which have a wonderful significance behind them. For Barça, one of those is of Ronaldinho embracing a young Lionel Messi. Many say it was the master passing the torch down to his apprentice.

Leo surpassed the flamboyant Brazilian's influence at the club by becoming the greatest player to ever represent Barça. In his most recent match, another photo has been taken which could signify the passing of the torch from the football icon to a young star. Messi was captured hugging Ansu Fati, a forward who was 'made in La Masia' and is already exciting fans around the world whenever he gets onto the ball.

ANSU IS MATURE BEYOND HIS YEARS

In contrast to the image of Messi and Ronaldinho, which saw the Brazilian leave the club soon after, is Leo is far from winding down his career. This isn't a question of Ansu replacing Leo but rather the two forming a duo which can fire Barça to new heights in the present. Fati is only 17 but plays with the maturity and swagger of someone who doesn't feel the pressure.

Unlike many previous La Masia graduates, Ansu hasn't suffered due to the expectations placed on his shoulders. He's embraced it. There is no rushing of chances, but rather a calm presence of a player who appears built to succeed at the Camp Nou. He's got the mind of a veteran already. 

AHEAD OF SCHEDULE

And it isn't only about potential and talent when it comes to Ansu, there's also end product too. According to 'FCB Datos', at 17 years of age (6,303 days old) Fati has played in 19 official matches and scored five goals. Messi, at the same age, had yet to make his debut with the first team. It also took Messi 31 matches to reach five senior goals. So far, Ansu is bettering Messi's record but it's important to be patient with him. For now though, it's exciting to see how far this kid can go.