A new era at Camp Nou began after Barcelona’s prodigious talent, Lamine Yamal, officially inherited the club’s iconic number 10 shirt, once worn by the legendary Lionel Messi. The club released a series of videos containing moments during the contract signing. The gesture signals the passing of the torch to one of the brightest young stars in world football.
Lamal brings his grandmother to sign contract extension
The shirt presentation was made even more emotional by the presence of Yamal’s grandmother, who has played a key role in his journey. The young winger acknowledged her steadfast support throughout his rise to stardom.
From La Masia to First-Team Glory
Yamal, now 18 years old, made his debut for Barcelona in 2023 at the age of just 15, wearing the number 41 shirt. He spent the following season in the number 27 before adopting Messi’s former number 19 last summer, a number Messi wore between 2005 and 2008. After a stellar campaign, Yamal now dons the number 10, joining a lineage that includes Diego Maradona, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, and, most notably, Lionel Messi.
Yamine Lamal's career
In Hansi Flick’s debut season as Barcelona manager, Yamal emerged as a cornerstone of the team. He contributed 9 goals and 15 assists in La Liga, helping the Catalan giants reclaim the domestic crown with 88 points — four ahead of arch-rivals Real Madrid. Barcelona’s league campaign featured 28 wins, 4 draws, and just 6 losses, with Atletico Madrid finishing third on 76 points.
Yamal also impressed on the continental stage, scoring five goals and providing four assists in the UEFA Champions League, before Barcelona’s dramatic elimination by Inter Milan.
Yamal’s exploits extended to the international stage, where he led Spain to the UEFA Euro title, showcasing maturity beyond his years. He continued that form in the UEFA Nations League, scoring and assisting in Spain’s 5-4 semifinal win over France.
Still only 17 at the time of the tournament, Yamal’s performances have seen his market value skyrocket, cementing his place among football’s elite young talents. With over 100 senior appearances and 25 goals to his name already, Yamal is quickly becoming the face of Barcelona’s future. His elevation to the number 10 shirt symbolizes both his rapid rise and the immense trust the club has placed in him to carry forward its legacy.
