The number 10 of FC Barcelona. The club is preparing to officially bestow this honor upon him, potentially right after Ansu Fati’s departure is confirmed. This decision reflects not just a shift in squad numbers, but a symbolic passing of the torch — a recognition that Lamine is seen as the next great hope to lead Barcelona into a new era.”*
For generations, the number 10 jersey at Barcelona has carried immense weight and responsibility. It has been worn by legendary figures such as Ronaldinho, whose flair and joy redefined football for a generation, and of course, Lionel Messi — widely regarded as the greatest player to ever grace the game — who turned the number into a global symbol of genius, loyalty, and legacy.
When Messi left in 2021, Ansu Fati was entrusted with the number, signaling the club’s belief in his potential to become a talismanic figure. While Fati showed moments of brilliance, his journey was marred by injuries and inconsistencies, leading to speculation about his long-term future at the club.
Now, with Fati possibly on his way out, all eyes turn to Lamine Yamal — the teenage sensation who has dazzled fans with his maturity, technical brilliance, and fearlessness well beyond his years. At just 16, he has already become a regular fixture in both the Barcelona first team and the Spanish national side, showcasing a rare combination of composure and creativity.
By giving him the number 10, Barcelona would not just be recognizing his talent — they would be placing their trust in him as a cornerstone of their future. It signals that Lamine is more than just a promising youngster; he is seen as a symbol of the club’s identity, its values, and its ambition to return to the summit of world football through youth, skill, and homegrown excellence.
In many ways, this moment could mark the beginning of a new chapter — one that looks to the future, but never forgets the past.
