Spanish giants FC Barcelona have officially announced the contract extension of 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, with the new deal set to run until 2031.
According to reports, the young star’s new contract includes a net annual salary of €8 million. Starting next season, Yamal will wear the iconic No. 10 jersey, previously worn by legends such as Maradona, Ronaldinho, and Messi.
President Laporta Personally Witnesses the Signing
Barcelona held a grand signing ceremony for Yamal, attended by club executives, the player’s family, and close friends. Club president Joan Laporta personally oversaw the signing and accompanied Yamal to the club’s official store, where the youngster had his No. 10 shirt printed, a touching and symbolic moment.
At the same time, Yamal’s hometown, Mataró, unveiled a special tribute, the “Yamal Wall,” a large graffiti mural created by local artists that illustrates his journey from joining Barça’s academy at age 7 to inheriting the club’s most legendary number.
Most Valuable Player in World Football
Yamal’s estimated market value has soared to €200 million, making him the most valuable active player in the world. Close behind him are Mbappé, Haaland, and Bellingham, all tied at €180 million. The football world is witnessing a “Three Heroes vs. One Warrior” scenario, with Yamal being the standout “warrior.”
Debuted at 15, Now a Core Attacking Force
Yamal made history when he debuted for Barça’s first team at just 15 years old and netted his first goal at 16. To date, he has made 106 appearances, scoring 25 goals and providing 34 assists.
Last season, Yamal had a breakout year, appearing in 55 matches and delivering 18 goals and 23 assists, cementing his role as a vital part of Barça’s attacking line. Before inheriting the No. 10 shirt, he had previously worn No. 41, No. 27, and No. 19.
Inheriting a Shirt of Legends
The No. 10 jersey at Barcelona is one of the most legendary numbers in football history. From Diego Maradona to Romário, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, and Lionel Messi, each player who has worn it has earned Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year honours.
Now, the No. 10 jersey is passed to Yamal, and the club hopes that he will continue this legendary legacy as the world’s most valuable player. At just 18, Yamal is already a top contender for both the Ballon d’Or and FIFA Best Player award this year.
Yamal on Carrying the Torch
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Yamal said, “I understand the weight of this jersey, and I want to carve my path. But as kids, we all dream of becoming like Maradona, Ronaldinho, and Messi. They’re all legends, and I’m honored to follow in their footsteps.”
Already a Champion, But Still Dreaming Bigger
Despite his age, Yamal has already played a crucial role in Spain’s 2024 UEFA Euro victory and helped Barça win two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, and one Spanish Super Cup.
When asked about his ambitions, Yamal said, “I haven’t won the Champions League or the World Cup yet; those are my biggest goals now.”
A Promise to the Fans: More Wins and Joy Ahead
When asked if he had a message for the fans, Yamal shared, “I’m excited to play for you at the new stadium, the new Camp Nou!” Looking ahead, he added, “This season will bring us many joyful moments and many victories; I truly believe that.”
The Next Chapter Begins
Since Messi’s departure, Barcelona has been searching for the rightful heir to the No. 10 shirt. With Yamal, that search appears to be over. As the new season approaches, the question remains: Can this teenage prodigy lead Barça back to the top of European football? The world is watching.
Yamal’s story is only just beginning.
