Xavi rubs salt into Wolves wounds after Adama Traore shines on Barcelona debut

Xavi believes Adama Traore can 'make the difference' for Barcelona after his stunning debut in Sunday's win over Atletico Madrid.

Spain international Traore, 26, produced a superb assist for teammate Gavi to put Barcelona 2-1 up on their way to a 4-2 win over Champions League rivals Atletico.

Traore produced a man of the match display at the Camp Nou - according to WhoScored - the day after parent club Wolverhampton Wanderers were dumped out of the FA Cup by Norwich City.

After the win over Atletico, Barcelona head coach Xavi heaped praise on Traore.

"Adama is a very mature player. He knows when to face up, when to pass and he’s chosen his moments well today," said Xavi, as quoted by Marca.

“Physically he is an animal, a beast. He is a pure winger and he will help us. He is a great signing for the team.

“Adama makes the difference. He has power, strength, he dribbles at opponents and he’s solid in defence.”

Barcelona have the option to make Traore's switch permanent for around £25million in July, and president Joan Laporta has already signalled their intention to do so.

“We’ve an option to buy clause included into the Adama Traore deal with Wolves and our plan is to trigger that clause," Laporta said.

"It’s on him - he made a great effort [on salary] to play here at Barça.”

Traore scored one goal in his 20 appearances in the Premier League for Wolves during the first half of the season, but failed to register an official assist.