Lamine Yamal has known it for a while, but it's about to become official. As Madrid-Barcelona has been reporting in recent months, the youth academy product will be the new "10" at Barcelona once Ansu Fati's departure is confirmed. The Spaniard has everything set to go on loan to Monaco, leaving the historic number available. Even though he has been offered this number on multiple occasions, Lamine has wanted to be respectful to his friend, waiting for his departure before taking it on.
Lamine Yamal talks about it with Nico Williams
By taking the number 10, something that will become official at his contract renewal event when he turns 18, Lamine Yamal will free up another number. The winger will no longer wear 19, making it a possibility for his friend Nico Williams, whose arrival at FC Barcelona will be made official next week.
On the table, Nico Williams already knows he has two options he likes. One would be to take Lamine Yamal's 19 next season, but there's another possibility. Number 17 will also become available, which will be freed up in the coming days by Casadó's express decision.
Marc Casadó, its current holder, wants a number change for next season. In a complete number shuffle, the Catalan plans to switch to 14, which Pablo Torre will stop using with his departure. This way, Nico Williams will be able to choose between two options: Lamine Yamal's 19 up to now, or 17.
Lamine Yamal, a goldmine for Barça
Lamine Yamal has become the great treasure of FC Barcelona. At just 17 years old, the young La Masia talent not only shines on the field, but is also a goldmine for the club in marketing. His impact has been immediate and global. In his second season established in the first team, Yamal has shown personality, unpredictability, and a talent beyond his years.
Hansi Flick knows he has a game-changing footballer in his hands, capable of changing matches with a single play. His connection with Camp Nou is total, and his performance has been key in the titles won this season. His value goes beyond sports. Shirts with his name sell out, sponsors ask about him, and his image is already starting to project internationally as one of the club's most powerful.
Barça has in Lamine Yamal a generational player. Franchise footballer for many years and an essential figure to rebuild the club's sporting and economic identity. His importance goes beyond the field: he is present, future, and Barça brand.