In a momentous occasion for both the player and the club, Lamine Yamal has been officially named Barcelona's new No. 10 and has signed a contract extension committing him to the Blaugrana until 2031. The announcement, which coincided with Yamal's 18th birthday on July 16, 2025, marks the beginning of a new era for the Catalan giants, entrusting their future to the La Masia graduate.
The No. 10 jersey at Barcelona carries immense historical weight, having been worn by legends such as Diego Maradona, Romário, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, and, most famously, Lionel Messi. After Messi's departure in 2021, Ansu Fati inherited the number but subsequently went on loan to Monaco, leaving it vacant. The club's decision to bestow the iconic number upon Yamal signifies their unwavering belief in his potential to become a defining figure for a new generation of Barça fans.
Yamal's rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Even at the young age of 18, he has already made 127 senior appearances for Barcelona and Spain, scoring 25 goals and securing a domestic treble in the 2024/25 season. His exceptional talent, vision, and ability to perform under pressure have drawn comparisons to Messi. However, Yamal remains focused on forging his own path and creating a unique legacy at the club.
The contract extension until 2031 demonstrates Barcelona's commitment to Yamal as a central figure in their long-term sporting project. The deal includes a base salary of €15 million per season, which could rise to €20 million with performance-related bonuses. Furthermore, the contract features a release clause exceeding €1 billion, effectively warding off interest from other clubs. FC Barcelona has implemented a new policy of keeping Yamal's buyout clause undisclosed.
The official announcement was made internally at the club's offices, with Yamal signing the new contract in the presence of his family, club president Joan Laporta, first vice president Rafa Yusta, and sporting director Anderson Luis de Souza "Deco". This gesture underscores the club's faith in Yamal's ability to lead the team for years to come.
By handing Yamal the No. 10 jersey and securing his future with a long-term contract, Barcelona is sending a clear message: they are placing their faith in homegrown talent and building their future around Yamal. As Yamal steps into this prestigious role, fans eagerly anticipate his continued brilliance and expect him to honor the legacy of the No. 10 while shaping the club's future.
