Lamine Yamal is not helped by comparisons to Lionel Messi, so says Spain coach Luis de la Fuente.

Yamal was only fit enough for a substitute appearance in Spain's World Cup opener – a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde.

Despite only coming on in the 71st minute, Yamal attempted the most dribbles (five) of any player in the game.

Spain will hope to get their first win when they take on Saudi Arabia on Sunday, with Yamal expected to play a greater part.

Yamal is already Spain's youngest debutant and youngest goalscorer. 

In 26 appearances for his country, Yamal has scored six goals and provided 11 assists. In 151 matches for Barcelona, the 18-year-old has netted 49 times and set up another 45 goals.

Naturally, Yamal has drawn comparisons to Barca great Messi, but De la Fuente does not feel such a debate is necessary.

"It would be a mistake to compare [Yamal] to anyone," De la Fuente told reporters.

"He's 18, in a process of development, of maturing... We have to let him follow his path.

"These kinds of players, who have something different, are ready for it.

"They're geniuses, like Salvador Dali, or Michelangelo. What seems exceptional to us, isn't for them."

Asked whether Yamal would start against Saudi Arabia, De la Fuente added: "We'll evaluate that.

"The best news is that he's here. Lamine is in a good moment. Whether he plays 55, 58 or 63 minutes, that will depend on the game.

"We'll think about his contribution to the team, and what's beneficial for him."