Barcelona’s young sensation Lamine Yamal will inherit the iconic number 10 jersey from next season, a number previously worn by club legend Lionel Messi and Brazil legend Ronaldinho.
This move came as part of Yamal’s contract extension until June 2031, solidifying his future with the Blaugrana.
The 17-year-old has already made a name for himself in the football world, winning a domestic treble with Barcelona and a European Championship with Spain, and was also very instrumental in Barcelona reaching the semi-final in the 2025 Champions League where the narrowly lose out to Inter Milan.
His impressive performances have earned him numerous accolades, including the Golden Boy, Kopa Trophy, and Laureus Breakthrough of the Year award.
READ MORE: Lamine Yamal to remain at Barcelona till 2031 with new contract extension
Ansu Fati, the current occupant of the squad number, is expected to join Monaco this summer, paving the way for Yamal to take on the iconic jersey. Ronaldinho, another Barcelona legend who previously wore the number 10 jersey, has reportedly given Yamal his blessing to carry on the torch.
Lamine Yamal post for the Man of the Match award after win over Espanol. ( Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Yamal’s contract extension is a good reward for his contributions to the success of the Hansi Flicks led team and this may also been a big booster to other young players who might want to take after him.
Alongside the contract extension, Lamine Yamal will receive a significant pay bump reflecting his status as one of the world’s best young players.
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Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane has praised Yamal, saying, “I’ve never seen anything like it.” With his talent and work ethic, Yamal is expected to continue shining on the pitch for years to come.
Lamine Yamal is also named in the 2025 Balon Do’r nominee list alongside fellow teammate and Brazilian forward Raphinha.
