Miami, June 27 -- Luis Suarez has called on football fans to stop comparing Spanish teenager Lamine Yamal with Lionel Messi, describing such debates as "odious" while expressing confidence that the Barcelona youngster has the potential to one day reach the legendary Argentine's level.

The former Barcelona striker, who now plays alongside Messi at Inter Miami, said Yamal's immense talent should be appreciated on its own merits rather than constantly measured against the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. While acknowledging similarities between the two left-footed attackers, Suarez stressed they are fundamentally different players.

"Comparisons are odious," Suarez told Mundo Deportivo, reported Goal.com.

"They're different players. Yes, the...