Lamine Yamal inherits Messi’s iconic No. 10 jersey at Barcelona

Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has been handed the membership’s legendary quantity 10 shirt, beforehand worn by Lionel Messi, following a breakout season with the Catalan.

Yamal, who wore the quantity 19 jersey final time period, scored 18 objectives and registered 25 assists as Barcelona claimed the La Liga title, Copa del Rey and Spanish Tremendous Cup, whereas additionally reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.

The 18-year-old had already cemented his long-term future with the membership after signing a contract extension in Might that ties him to Barcelona till 2031.

On Wednesday, he was formally introduced with the No. 10 shirt in a particular ceremony led by membership president Joan Laporta.

The shirt is without doubt one of the most iconic in soccer, having been famously worn by Lionel Messi, who lifted 34 trophies and scored a report 672 objectives throughout his illustrious Barcelona profession.

Different legends like Diego Maradona and Ronaldinho additionally donned the jersey, including to its wealthy legacy.

However Yamal, hailed as the way forward for each Barcelona and Spanish soccer, says he’s prepared for the problem:

“Messi paved the way in which with the quantity 10; I’ll make mine,” Yamal mentioned.

“Each child goals of one thing from Messi, Ronaldinho, or Maradona. I’ll attempt to keep on that legacy. First, my dream was to debut for Barça and put on the quantity 10. I’m grateful to the membership for this chance.”

Since Messi’s departure in 2021, the No. 10 shirt was briefly worn by Ansu Fati, who struggled to satisfy expectations and can now spend subsequent season on mortgage at AS Monaco after a stint at Brighton.