Ahead of a showdown with the reigning European champions, Barcelona midfielder Pedri has issued a warning to teammate Lamine Yamal.

The teenage forward is regarded as one of the best in the world, and has been touted as the heir to Lionel Messi in world football.

Pedri spoke to reporters ahead of the UEFA Champions League tie against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), addressing comparisons between Yamal and Messi.

Along with 19-year-old Yamal, Pedri is considered as a key player for Barcelona and Spain, and one of the world's best in his position.

'Comparing him to Leo Messi is complicated': Pedri warns Yamal

Pedri was on media duties for Barcelona ahead of their blockbuster league phase meeting with PSG in Paris.

When asked about similarities between teammate Yamal and club legend Messi, he quickly shut down the comparison and urged others to do the same.

Pedri was clear in his assessment of the situation, and pointed out that Messi is the best player in history, essentially making it complicated to compare others to him.

"For me, Lamine shouldn't be compared to anyone because comparing him to Leo Messi is complicated... Comparing yourself to the best player in history is complicated," he said.

Pedri is best placed to make the point, having played alongside both players already in his career.

He joined Barcelona ahead of Messi's final season at the Spotify Camp Nou and formed a good bond on the pitch with the veteran despite only being a teenager, himself.

He also saw Yamal break out of the famed La Masia academy and make a great deal of history in his time as a top-flight footballer so far.

Lamine Yamal earned Messi comparisons with displays for club and country

Still only 19 years old, Lamine Yamal joined a long list of players to have earned the moniker "Next Messi" after he emerged through the ranks at Barcelona.

The forward started off in a similar position on the pitch to Messi, while also playing with his left foot and receiving his education at the club's La Masia academy.

Yamal's performances for Barcelona since his debut as a 15-year-old have lent some credence to comparisons with Messi, a player he grew up adoring.

Messi and Yamal met for the first time ever in the FIFA World Cup final this summer, and they shared a respectful moment on the pitch after Yamal's Spain triumphed in New York.

Both men have been nominated for the Ballon d'Or this year, having been in fine form for their respective teams.

If he manages to win the award, Yamal will become its youngest-ever recipient, carving out another piece of history for himself.