Lamine Yamal takes over Messi’s No. 10 shirt at Barcelona

FC Barcelona’s rising star, Lamine Yamal, has officially taken over the club’s legendary No. 10 jersey, a number made famous by football greats including Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, and Diego Maradona.

The announcement came during a contract celebration event with Yamal and his family. The teenager, who just turned 18, will wear the iconic number starting next season, succeeding Ansu Fati, who recently joined AS Monaco on loan.

“It’s a proud moment for the club and a well-earned step for Yamal,” Barcelona said in a brief statement.

Yamal’s new contract, which runs until 2031, solidifies his position as a central figure in Barça’s future.

He has already made 106 appearances, scored 25 goals, and helped the club secure two La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey, and a Spanish Supercopa.

He now follows in the footsteps of Messi, who wore the No. 10 shirt from 2008 until his exit in 2021, during which he became Barcelona’s all-time top scorer and won multiple domestic and European titles.

Yamal has shown signs of admiration for the shirt’s history, recently posting pictures of Messi, Ronaldinho, and Maradona on social media, hinting at his aspirations.

This will be the fourth shirt number Yamal has worn since making his debut in 2023 at just 15 years old. He previously wore No. 41, No. 27, and most recently No. 19, coincidentally the number Messi wore before switching to No. 10.

A New Chapter for Barcelona’s Future

The decision signals a strong vote of confidence from the club in Yamal’s potential, as he continues to impress for both Barcelona and Spain.

The No. 10 jersey, once reserved for the team’s most creative and influential players, now rests on his shoulders.