Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has been handed the club’s legendary number 10 shirt, previously worn by Lionel Messi, following a breakout season with the Catalan.
Yamal, who wore the number 19 jersey last term, scored 18 goals and registered 25 assists as Barcelona claimed the La Liga title, Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup, while also reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
The 18-year-old had already cemented his long-term future with the club after signing a contract extension in May that ties him to Barcelona until 2031.
On Wednesday, he was officially presented with the No. 10 shirt in a special ceremony led by club president Joan Laporta.
The shirt is one of the most iconic in football, having been famously worn by Lionel Messi, who lifted 34 trophies and scored a record 672 goals during his illustrious Barcelona career.
Other legends like Diego Maradona and Ronaldinho also donned the jersey, adding to its rich legacy.
But Yamal, hailed as the future of both Barcelona and Spanish football, says he is ready for the challenge:
“Messi paved the way with the number 10; I will make mine,” Yamal said.
“Every kid dreams of something from Messi, Ronaldinho, or Maradona. I’ll try to carry on that legacy. First, my dream was to debut for Barça and wear the number 10. I’m grateful to the club for this opportunity.”
Since Messi’s departure in 2021, the No. 10 shirt was briefly worn by Ansu Fati, who struggled to meet expectations and will now spend next season on loan at AS Monaco after a stint at Brighton.
