As Barcelona looks ahead to a new era, a familiar number is about to be pulled out of the locker once again—one that carries the weight of greatness.
The No. 10 shirt, once worn by the legendary Lionel Messi, is now reportedly set to land on the back of 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal.
And it’s not just a number—this change symbolizes something much bigger.
A New Contract and a Major Milestone
According to reports from Memorabilia1899.co, Yamal is expected to sign a brand-new, long-term contract with Barcelona when he turns 18 in July.
This isn’t just a simple extension—his new deal will reportedly include a jaw-dropping €1 billion (£841 million) release clause, a clear sign that the club sees him as their next generational superstar.
As part of the agreement, Yamal will inherit the iconic No. 10 jersey, which currently belongs to Ansu Fati.
With Fati’s future at the club uncertain, it appears the legendary shirt will be passed on to the young winger, who’s been wearing No. 19 this season.
Following in Messi’s Footsteps
The comparisons between Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi have been growing all season—and this latest development only deepens the connection.
From his breakout performances to his cool-headed composure, Yamal has drawn plenty of praise from fans and pundits alike.
Taking over the No. 10 jersey just solidifies his place as Messi’s symbolic heir.
Messi first wore the number in 2008, and over the next 13 years, he turned it into a symbol of brilliance.
During that time, he won seven Ballon d’Ors (adding another in 2023 after Argentina’s World Cup win), scored 672 goals in 778 games, and brought home 10 LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies.
Now, Yamal has the opportunity—and the pressure—to carry on that legacy.
A Meteoric Rise
Though he’s still just 17, Yamal’s journey with Barcelona has already been extraordinary.
He made his debut for the senior team at just 15 years old.
Since then, he’s helped the club win LaLiga twice and was a standout in their recent Champions League run, which ended in a gripping semi-final showdown against Inter Milan.
And let’s not forget—he also lifted the European Championship trophy with Spain last year, further cementing his status as one of the brightest young talents in world football.
Praise from Legends of the Game
Yamal’s recent performances have been nothing short of sensational.
Following Barcelona’s thrilling 3-3 Champions League draw with Inter, pundits couldn’t stop talking about him.
Rio Ferdinand took to social media, calling Yamal “unbelievable” and claiming the teen was operating on “another level” compared to any other player in the top five European leagues.
Jamie Carragher, on CBS Sports, went even further.
After watching Yamal’s dazzling display, he said it felt like watching Messi in his prime: “The whole game almost stopping to just see what he was going to do. It was just brilliant.”