Barcelona Star Boy, Lamine Yamal has been handed the iconic No. 10 jersey, once famously worn by Lionel Messi, the club confirmed on Wednesday, just days after the winger celebrated his 18th birthday.
Yamal succeeds Ansu Fati, who previously wore the shirt before sealing a season-long loan move to AS Monaco earlier this month.
The announcement was made during a contract celebration event with the player’s family, following the agreement of a new long-term deal until 2031.
“Messi has made his way, and I’m going to make mine” – Lamine Yamal
Wearing the legendary No. 10 is a dream come true for the young winger, who has quickly become one of the standout performers for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
“When I was a child, my dream was to debut for Barça, to grow up and play with the No. 10,” Yamal said.
“Every kid born in Barcelona dreams of that. Messi has made his way, and I’m going to make mine.”
The shirt has previously been donned by club legends such as Ronaldinho, Diego Maradona, Pep Huardiola, Rivaldo, and Romário, and so on with Messi holding it from 2008 to 2021.
Meteoric Rise of Lamine Yamal in Barcelona
Yamal’s numbers speak volumes for his talent and rapid growth:
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106 appearances for Barcelona
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25 goals scored
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LaLiga x2, Copa del Rey x1, Spanish Supercopa x1
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UEFA Euro 2024 winner with Spain
In just three seasons, Yamal has worn four different shirt numbers:
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No. 41 on debut
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No. 27 the following year
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No. 19 last season (Messi’s pre-10 number)
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Now, No. 10
Controversy Looms Over 18th Birthday Party
The announcement comes amid an ongoing investigation by the Spanish government into alleged violations of disability laws during Yamal’s 18th birthday celebration. Reports claim individuals with dwarfism were hired as entertainers at the party.
Yamal has not made public comments on the investigation but addressed the media in a composed tone during the ceremony.
“I’m a bit indifferent to both criticism and praise if it doesn’t come from my family or friends,” he said.
“Right now, I’m very focused on football. Ultimately, I work for Barça and I play for Barça, but when I’m away from Ciudad Deportiva, I enjoy my life, and that’s it.”
Lamine Yamal remains hungry for more silverware despite his already stacked trophy cabinet
“I haven’t won the Champions League and the World Cup, these are my goals now.”
Nico Williams Rejects Barcelona, Commits Future to Athletic
Meanwhile, another Spanish star, Nico Williams, who recently turned down Barcelona’s interest by signing a contract extension with Athletic Club until June 2035 has revealed why he made the decision.
Barça had been ready to trigger his €58 million release clause, but the Euro 2024 champion chose loyalty over a big-money switch.
“I think we have a very long season ahead of us,” Nico said.
“We have very ambitious titles like the Champions League, which everyone would like to play in. What could be better than doing it with the club of my life?”
The winger, who joined Athletic at age 11, will continue playing alongside his brother, Iñaki Williams, who has been named club captain.
“We’ve both always dreamed of this moment, my brother is a role model for everyone, especially for me.”
“I think he’s the best person to be captain,” Nico said.
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