Lamine Yamal, just having turned 18, has become more than just a prospect. His voice is starting to carry weight in the locker room and the heavyweights are already listening to his opinions. With Marcus Rashford's arrival, his reaction was immediate.
Far from feeling uncomfortable about the competition or disappointed by Nico Williams not joining, Lamine has stepped up. He is happy.
He considers Rashford a top-level signing, at the level demanded by FC Barcelona, and believes his arrival can only strengthen the team.
Those close to the young academy product say he sees the Englishman as a decisive addition. He appreciates having a player join who can make a difference and understands that, to compete for everything, he needs to surround himself with the best.
Total versatility for the new Barça
One of the aspects Lamine values most about Rashford's signing is his versatility. He is not a player limited to one position. He can play on the left, his natural side, but he also performs comfortably on the right.
In addition, he can play as a center forward, and even take on the "false nine" role if the situation requires it.
The locker room values that ability to adapt. Rashford is coming to add, not to displace. Lamine knows he will be able to rest in certain matches without the team noticing.
That, in such a demanding season, can make the difference.
The young blaugrana star has been asking for top-level reinforcements for some time. He wants to win titles. Good feelings are not enough for him.
He is convinced Rashford will bring goals, imbalance, speed, and above all, experience on big nights.
Lamine thinks about the month of March
There is one detail Lamine doesn't overlook: physical planning. The club has focused on it and the locker room knows it.
This year, it will be essential to reach March with fresh legs. That is when everything will be decided: La Liga, Champions League, and Copa.
Lamine is clear about it. This is the year to make the definitive leap. But for that, he needs to manage his efforts.
He doesn't want to arrive exhausted at the key months, as has happened in other seasons. That's why he values Rashford's arrival so much, as it will allow him to pace himself without Barça losing competitiveness.
The club is also paying close attention to the wear and tear Real Madrid will suffer. Between the Club World Cup, the lack of vacation, and an incomplete preseason, they believe Los Blancos will reach the decisive stages with less fuel. That is where physical condition can decide titles.
A new partnership excites Barça
Lamine and Rashford can form a lethal partnership. Pure talent and imposing physicality. There is excitement in the locker room.
In Lamine, especially, there is conviction. He knows this signing can take him even further.
Leadership is not always imposed by years. Sometimes, it is enough to have clear ideas.