Lamine Yamal Ready to Claim Barcelona’s No.10?

Lamine Yamal has hit 18 and, with a new long-term deal on the table, debate in Catalunya now centres on whether the prodigy should slip straight into the famous No.10 shirt or spend one more year developing under the lighter weight of 19.

Lamine Yamal and the legacy of the No.10

The teenager’s rise mirrors Lionel Messi’s own path from La Masia to global superstardom. Like the Argentinian great, Yamal first wore 27, then 19, and now stands on the brink of inheriting the jersey once carried by Messi, Diego Maradona, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo. With Ansu Fati loaned to Monaco, the shirt is officially vacant, and club stores are already reporting a spike in “Yamal 10” enquiries.

Contract signed, spotlight brighter

Barcelona have secured the winger until 2030 on a salary that reflects his growing influence in Xavi’s squad. Sporting director Deco believes the contract removes any immediate distractions, allowing the coaching staff to decide calmly whether the extra expectation attached to No.10 could hinder rather than help his progress.

Why an extra season in 19 makes sense

Guillem Balague reports that Yamal is “seriously considering” delaying the switch. Wearing 19 for both club and Spain provides continuity; it also mimics Messi, who only switched numbers once his role as match-winner was beyond doubt. Letting the youngster focus on end product, rather than marketing buzz, could pay dividends in a title race that already looks unforgiving.

Our view

Handing No.10 to Lamine Yamal now would thrill supporters, but another 12 months of evolution feels wiser. If he keeps dazzling opponents, the shirt won’t just fit next summer—it will feel inevitable.