Following in Lionel Messi's footsteps! Lamine Yamal embraces comparisons to Argentine hero as Barcelona wonderkid handed iconic shirt number

Barcelona have decided to hand the iconic No.10 shirt to Yamal ahead of the 2025-26 season, Mundo Deportivo reports. The move comes after Ansu Fati’s loan move to Monaco, officially vacating the number. While Fati had worn the shirt since Messi's departure, Barcelona froze the number during his last loan spell.

The No.10 shirt at Barca isn't just a number it’s a symbol. From Rivaldo and Ronaldinho to Messi, it represents creativity, genius, and leadership. The club’s decision to pass it on to Yamal reflects their belief in his long-term potential and global appeal. With the his influence growing both on and off the pitch.

The official announcement of his new number may not come until after the new home kit is released on July 2. Barca will hold a special event for Yamal's 18th birthday in July and will announce him as the new No. 10 when that takes place, although, as his birthday falls on a holiday, it is not yet known when it will go ahead.

The youngster, who was recently with Neymar in Brazil, is currently relaxing in Ibiza and will join Hansi Flick's side for pre-season training in a couple of weeks.