Lamine Yamal, just days after celebrating his 18th birthday, officially became Barcelona’s new No. 10. The club announced this major step on its official social media handles, highlighting Yamal’s rapid rise in football.
A Historic Shirt with Immense Expectations
Barcelona’s No. 10 isn’t just a number—it symbolizes legacy, brilliance, and tremendous responsibility. Ronaldinho brought flair. Messi delivered unmatched greatness. Now, Yamal embraces that same spotlight under immense pressure. He inherits the shirt from Ansu Fati, who took over in 2021 after Messi’s emotional departure from the club.
Ansu Fati, once hailed as Messi’s heir, couldn’t meet expectations due to repeated injuries and form issues. After showing promise early on, he struggled to stay consistent and impactful across several campaigns. Barcelona loaned him to Brighton and now to Ligue 1 side AS Monaco to help revive his career.
“Messi Made His Path, I Will Make Mine”
At the jersey unveiling held at Spotify Camp Nou’s club shop, Yamal addressed fans and the press confidently. He said, “Messi made his path and I will make mine,” showcasing maturity beyond his age. Under former coach Xavi, Yamal impressed both fans and critics during his limited but electrifying appearances.
Media recently criticized Yamal for allegedly hiring performers with dwarfism for his birthday celebration. Yamal, unfazed by the backlash, responded, “When I’m away from the club, I enjoy my life, that’s all.” His composed reaction revealed a calm personality that might serve him well in football’s intense environment.
The Last Five Players to Wear Barcelona’s No. 10
1. Ansu Fati (2021–2023)
Barcelona gave Fati the No. 10 jersey after Messi left, hoping he’d carry the legacy forward. Despite flashes of brilliance, frequent injuries halted his progress and disrupted his consistency. Fati is now on loan to AS Monaco after an earlier stint with Premier League club Brighton.
2. Lionel Messi (2008–2021)
Messi redefined the No. 10 shirt during his 17-year reign as Barcelona’s greatest player. He scored 672 goals in 778 matches and won a record eight Ballon d’Or awards with the club. Messi remains football’s most successful one-club player in terms of goals and global impact.
3. Ronaldinho (2003–2008)
Ronaldinho brought joy, magic, and creativity during Barcelona’s revival in the early 2000s. He wore the No. 10 shirt with pride, helping the club return to global relevance. Fans still remember his tricks, charisma, and unforgettable goals at Camp Nou.
4. Juan Román Riquelme (2002–2003)
Riquelme played briefly for Barcelona but left his mark with skill, vision, and composure. He represented the club during a difficult transitional period and showcased Argentine creativity in midfield.
5. Rivaldo (1997–2002)
Rivaldo thrilled fans with left-footed screamers and technically brilliant performances. He scored a legendary overhead kick against Valencia in 2001, securing a Champions League spot. Rivaldo remains one of the most memorable No. 10s to grace the Camp Nou pitch.
What Lies Ahead for Lamine Yamal?
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick trusts Yamal to become the club’s next generational icon. The teenager has shown excellent footwork, vision, and confidence uncommon for someone so young. Supporters believe he has what it takes to lead the new Barcelona era.
But history shows this jersey brings massive scrutiny and intense public expectations. It can inspire greatness or crush potential, depending on how a player handles the spotlight. Whether Yamal thrives or struggles will depend on his mindset, work ethic, and resilience.
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