Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has officially signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2031 — a major statement of intent from both player and club. The renewal was made official at the club’s Ciutat Esportiva, where club president Joan Laporta was present to oversee the momentous occasion.
But the new deal wasn’t the only headline from the event — Barcelona also unveiled Yamal as the new bearer of the iconic No. 10 shirt, a number worn by legends such as Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo. At just 18 years old, Yamal becomes the youngest player in club history to inherit the number, previously held by Ansu Fati, who left for AS Monaco earlier this summer.
Born in Rocafonda, Catalonia, and a product of the famed La Masia academy, Yamal’s rise to the top has been meteoric. Following a record-breaking season where he was instrumental in Barcelona’s first-ever domestic treble, the gifted winger has shown he is more than ready for the responsibility that comes with the No. 10 jersey.
“Renewing my contract until 2031 is an important step,” Yamal said after the ceremony. “It’s a long road filled with victories. We hope to enjoy it even more than last year.”
Speaking about the legacy of the No. 10 shirt, Yamal added, “Messi had his journey, and now mine is beginning.
The number 10 comes from Ansu. I will try to bring joy to all the culers.”
Yamal, who says he remains grounded thanks to his close-knit family, has already set his sights on ambitious targets.
“Winning the Champions League and the World Cup. These are my goals now,” he said. “To keep improving and enjoying myself. That should be the team’s goal — keep playing well and winning titles.”
He also shared a touching moment about the delay in the announcement. “My grandmother is very important to me. I want to thank her for everything she’s done for me.
The event was delayed because she was in Morocco.” With his contract now secured and the symbolic No. 10 on his back, Yamal is positioned to be the face of Barcelona’s future — and possibly its next Ballon d’Or winner.
At this rate, he’ll only be 24 when his new deal expires, potentially leaving behind a legacy that cements his place among the greats.
The journey has just begun, but for Lamine Yamal, the path is already paved with history, promise, and greatness.
