Lamine Yamal, at just 17 years old, is emerging as the next bearer of FC Barcelona's iconic number "10" jersey, inheriting Lionel Messi's legacy, according to Madrid-Barcelona. This decision comes in a context where Ansu Fati, the current holder of the number, is seeking playing time away from Camp Nou, and Raphinha, another potential candidate, has declined the offer, acknowledging that Lamine Yamal is the ideal choice to wear the club's most iconic jersey.
Lamine Yamal, chosen as Messi's heir
Lamine Yamal's season is being exceptional: 15 goals and 24 assists in 51 matches, establishing himself as an absolutely key piece in Hansi Flick's scheme. His performance has been compared to Messi's in his early days, and his leadership, both on and off the field, has been evident... Especially after the elimination in the Champions League semifinals, where he promised fans he would bring the trophy back to Camp Nou.
Assigning the number "10" jersey to Yamal will not only be a recognition of his talent, but also a club strategy to solidify his image as the new Barça reference. President Joan Laporta sees him as Messi's natural successor, and this decision reinforces that vision. It is expected that he will become the club's great icon, leading jersey sales.
With Ansu Fati's departure and Raphinha's resignation, the path is clear for Lamine Yamal to take on this new role. Next season, the young prodigy will not only wear the number "10" jersey but also bear the responsibility of leading FC Barcelona into a new era full of success.
Ansu Fati will not continue at Barça
With a contract until 2027 and one of the highest salaries on the team, Ansu Fati has set conditions to leave. He wants to feel important but also keep a salary similar to the current one. A few months ago, in January, he rejected the possibility of playing in Saudi Arabia, with Barça having received an offer of 10 million euros.
The idea is, if a transfer happens, to keep a significant percentage of his rights and have a buyback option. Ansu is still only 22 years old, and although his future is uncertain due to injuries, he is not to be lost sight of at Barcelona.