18-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal has been officially handed Barcelona’s legendary number 10 shirt for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The decision, confirmed by sources close to the club, marks a significant milestone in Yamal’s meteoric rise and underscores Barcelona’s unwavering belief in his potential to become a global superstar. The number 10, famously worn by legends such as Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, and Diego Maradona, carries immense weight, and Yamal’s assignment to it signals the dawn of a new era at the Camp Nou.
The decision to bestow the number 10 shirt upon Yamal has been in discussion since the end of the 2024-25 season, with the club carefully considering the future of the iconic jersey. Previously worn by Ansu Fati, who is reportedly set to depart Barcelona this summer, the number 10 became available, paving the way for Yamal to step into the spotlight. The announcement has sparked widespread excitement among fans, who see Yamal as the heir to Barcelona’s storied attacking legacy.
Yamal, who burst onto the scene as a 15-year-old in 2023, has already established himself as one of Europe’s brightest talents. His performances for both Barcelona and Spain, including a standout display in the 2025 Nations League semi-final where he scored twice against France, have drawn comparisons to the game’s greats. His ability to glide past defenders, deliver pinpoint crosses, and score crucial goals has made him a fan favorite and a cornerstone of Barcelona’s rebuilding project under coach Hansi Flick.
Speaking about the pressure of wearing the number 10, Yamal remained characteristically composed. “There’s no pressure. A new number, but the same goal,” he said, as reported by @TouchlineX on X. “I’m here to play my football, to help the team win, and to make the fans proud. The number 10 is an honor, but my focus is on the pitch.” His calm demeanor belies the enormity of the responsibility, as the number 10 shirt at Barcelona is synonymous with creativity, leadership, and moments of magic.
Barcelona’s decision to entrust Yamal with the jersey has been met with widespread approval, though it has not been without debate. Some questioned whether the young winger, still only 17, should carry such a symbolic burden so early in his career. However, club insiders have emphasized Yamal’s maturity and readiness. “Lamine is a special talent, not just in ability but in mentality,” an unnamed club official was quoted as saying by @memorabilia1899. “He’s shown he can handle the expectations, and this shirt is a reflection of our trust in him to lead this team into the future.”
The move has also caught the attention of the footballing world, with high-profile figures weighing in. Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, who previously expressed his admiration for Yamal, reiterated his praise. “It’s difficult to put into words what he’s doing because he’s not supposed to be doing that at 16 or 17,” Rashford said in June 2025, as reported by Sky Sports. “I don’t think we’ve seen that before.” Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo, speaking ahead of Portugal’s Nations League final against Spain, urged the media to temper expectations. “Let him grow,” Ronaldo cautioned, emphasizing the need to protect Yamal’s development despite his rapid ascent.