Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has officially taken over the club’s legendary number 10 shirt, once worn by football icon Lionel Messi. The 18-year-old winger, who rose through the ranks of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, described the moment as a dream come true and promised to work hard to make fans proud.
Speaking at an event at the Spotify Camp Nou stadium, Yamal expressed gratitude for the legacy left by Messi, Ronaldinho, and Maradona—three legends who previously wore the shirt—but made it clear he intends to carve out his own story.
“Messi made his path and I will make mine,” he said. “I’ll give everything I have to make Barcelona fans, whether in the stadium or at home, happy.”
Yamal made his debut at just 15 years old in 2023 wearing the number 41. He later switched to number 27, and then 19—Messi’s old number between 2005 and 2008—before now being handed the iconic 10 jersey. The number was last worn by Ansu Fati, who struggled with injuries and recently joined Monaco on loan.
Now one of Barcelona’s highest-paid players after signing a contract extension until 2031, Yamal has already helped the team to a domestic treble and scored 25 goals in over 100 appearances. Despite the pressure that comes with wearing number 10, he said he is focused on enjoying football, winning the Champions League with Barca, and one day lifting the World Cup with Spain.
“I’ve been with Barca since I was seven. This club is my life,” Yamal said. “Every kid in La Masia dreams of reaching the first team and I’m doing it. I have to keep working.”
Off the pitch, Yamal recently faced scrutiny after celebrating his 18th birthday with a private party featuring entertainers with dwarfism. The event drew criticism from advocacy groups and prompted Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights to request a public investigation. Addressing the controversy, Yamal said, “When I’m not at the club, I enjoy my life—and that’s all.”
Despite the outside noise, the young star remains focused on his journey with Barcelona and the immense responsibility of wearing one of the most iconic shirts in football.
