Barcelona whizkid Ansu Fati hailed by Luis Enrique after stunning Spain debut

Luis Enrique described Ansu Fati’s confidence levels as “not normal” after the 17-year-old scored his first ever goal for Spain on his first international start on Sunday.

The Barcelona whizkid had had a remarkable rise since making his debut for his club last August and is now making his mark for his country.

Fati took just three minutes to win Spain a penalty against Ukraine, which Sergio Ramos duly dispatched.

He then became the youngest ever goalscorer for Spain when he netted their third on the way to a comfortable 4-0 victory.

Speaking after the match, Spain boss Enrique said: “When we choose the squad we do not look at his age.

“That does not mean that we do not have to understand that Ansu Fati will play bad games and will make mistakes many times. It is part of his learning, but that self-confidence is not normal.

“Ansu Fati is very happy and has reasons. He is only 17 years old and has to mature, but that in his second game with the national team he dares to do all this…

“He brings hard work and humility. He has trained at an impressive pace and I am glad that he goes home with this joy.”

The youngster had only made his debut as a half-time substitute in Thursday’s draw with Germany, but his latest display comes off the back of an impressive season with Barca.

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He made 33 appearances in all competitions in 2019/20, scoring eight times in the process.

Barcelona think highly of their bright prospect and Enrique feels Fati’s attitude belies his young years.

“At his age it is easy for these highs to go to your head, but he is mature enough to know that the path he is following is the best,” Enrique added. “He is very calm and humble.”

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