Özil at 20 didn't 've the world's best midfield to compete with. If he did, you think he'd 've displaced anyone of our midfield trio? Would he've got the regular game time he did, that was instrumental to his development, the player that he is today? When a youth is entrusted with bigger responsibilities, it either matures him and takes him to the next level, or it shrinks him. Özil has passed that test and Thiago 'll do too. Only the latter has a bigger challenge, of not just competing with the best in the business for his spot, but also justify his presence on the pitch, the hype and high expectations levied on him. The current kings of MF 've been set as his benchmark and every performances of him is micro-analysed. The errors that are typical of his age, 'll see him be criticised more than his concurrent at a lower club. He won't be afforded a low-key transition, for he is associated with the world's best club. The margin of error is small.
Thiago has a mammoth task ahead of him, of shining in the star-studded barca galaxy. And shining everytime he appears. His case is diff to Ozil's. Barring a couple, Thiago would be starter in all other top clubs. Experience is what stands between Thiago and worldclass. I've no doubt he'll get there. Just wish, people appreciate his talents in isolation, without making stupid comparisons. He can't put in a A+ game every match, and his performances all won’t be satisfactory. He’s only just begun. Patience is key.