Published April 15, 2025 – By ENOCH
It’s hard to believe how time has flown. Back in 2018:
- Lamine Yamal was just 11
- Robert Lewandowski was 30
- Raphinha was 22
Fast forward to 2025:
- Yamal is now 17
- Lewandowski is 36
- Raphinha is 28
And all three are starring for FC Barcelona, helping the club dominate European football. Despite the age gaps, they’re united by one goal: greatness.
Time has a remarkable way of revealing football’s most unexpected stories. Looking back on the ages of three of Barça’s current stars from 2018 to 2025 paints a stunning picture of how different generations have come together at one of the world’s most iconic clubs.
In 2018, young Lamine Yamal was only 11, just a hopeful talent developing at La Masia, Barcelona’s legendary youth academy. His name was a quiet buzz among the coaches, seen as one for the future.
Meanwhile, Robert Lewandowski was a global superstar at the peak of his game, terrorizing defenses and piling up goals, likely still the main man at Bayern Munich. At 30, he had already cemented his status among the best strikers of his generation.
And Raphinha, at 22, was just starting to make a name for himself. The raw talent was there, but he hadn’t yet fully stepped into the spotlight. His career was just beginning to take flight.
Now, in 2025, the script has flipped in the most fascinating way. Yamal, once the young dreamer, has exploded onto the scene. At just 17, he’s a key figure for Barcelona, dazzling fans with his skill, composure, and maturity well beyond his years.
Lewandowski, now 36, remains a powerful presence. Even with age creeping in, he continues to lead the line with brilliance and experience, proving that class truly is permanent.
Raphinha, now fully matured at 28, has become a crucial part of Barça’s attacking engine. Known for his creativity, dribbling, and decisive moments, he’s fulfilled the promise that once hinted at greatness.
What makes this trio so special isn’t just their talent—it’s the generational bridge they form. Yamal represents the future, Lewandowski the seasoned veteran, and Raphinha the player in his prime. Together, they offer a perfect blend of youth, experience, and peak performance.
Lewandowski’s wisdom is likely invaluable for Yamal’s development, while Raphinha’s path to the top provides inspiration and understanding. This mix has helped create a powerful and balanced team dynamic.
Their shared success highlights a deeper truth: football thrives when talent from all stages of life comes together for a common purpose. Whether it’s Yamal’s electric energy, Lewandowski’s clinical instincts, or Raphinha’s flair and grit, each one plays a vital role in Barcelona’s push for European glory.
This simple reflection on their age difference over seven years turns into a powerful narrative about growth, persistence, and the magic of football. It shows how dreams can become reality, how legends keep evolving, and how emerging stars rise to meet the moment.
Barcelona, through this trio, embodies what makes football timeless — the beautiful blend of old and new chasing the same dream.
Let me know if you’d like a shorter summary or a different tone!
