Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has officially inherited Barcelona’s iconic number 10 shirt, stepping into a jersey worn by club legends such as Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo. The 18-year-old winger, who has quickly risen through the ranks since his debut at just 15, takes on the monumental responsibility with confidence and ambition.
Speaking at a club event at the Spotify Camp Nou stadium, Yamal addressed comparisons to Messi, stating, “Messi made his path and I will make mine. I will work as hard as I can, give everything, and try to make those Barca fans who are there happy and those who are at home.”
The young winger, a product of the famed La Masia academy, played a crucial role in helping Barcelona secure a domestic treble last season. In May, he signed a long-term deal keeping him at the club until 2031, a testament to the faith the Catalan giants have in his talent. With over 100 appearances and 25 goals already to his name, Yamal is proving he is more than just a promising prospect.
“Barca is my life,” he said. “I’ve been here since I was seven. For all kids from La Masia, their dream is to make it to the first team, and I’m doing it.”
Yamal previously wore numbers 41, 27, and 19 each marking a step in his progression. The number 19 shirt was notably worn by Messi early in his career. The number 10 had most recently belonged to Ansu Fati, who struggled with injuries and has now been loaned to Monaco.
Beyond club aspirations, Yamal is also eyeing international success. “I want to win the Champions League with Barca and the World Cup with Spain,” he stated.
However, his recent birthday celebration stirred controversy after Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights requested a probe into the hiring of entertainers with dwarfism. Responding to the matter, Yamal said, “In the end I work for Barca, I play for Barca, but when I’m away from the club I enjoy my life, and that’s all.”
As he dons the number 10, the pressure will be immense but Yamal appears ready to write his own chapter in Barcelona’s storied history.
