Lamine Yamal chooses surprise new squad number at Barcelona as Euro 2024 star opts against Lionel Messi's famous No. 10

Barcelona have already registered Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, as first-team players for La Liga after the teenagers enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2023/24. With their first-team status comes the privilege of new kit numbers, a significant milestone for any footballer. According to Jijantes, Yamal has opted for the No. 19 shirt for the upcoming season amid much speculation and anticipation about whether the wonderkid would take over the legendary No. 10 shirt, famously worn by Messi.

There were also suggestions that Yamal could consider the No. 17 shirt, recently made available following Marcos Alonso’s exit from the club after wearing No. 27 in the previous season. However, he has surprised many by choosing the No. 19, a number he recently sported while representing Spain at UEFA Euro 2024.

The No. 19 shirt carries its own legacy at FC Barcelona. It was previously worn by notable players such as Franck Kessie, who left the club last season, Ferran Torres, and Sergio Aguero. Even Lionel Messi himself donned the No. 19 between 2005 and 2008, before eventually taking on the iconic No. 10. Another Barça legend, Patrick Kluivert, also wore the number during the 1998/99 season. Yamal's decision to choose this number connects him to a history of significant players, while also allowing him to carve out his own identity within the club.

Yamal's rise has been nothing short of meteoric as he set multiple records for his cub during the 2023/24 season. And his recent heroics in Euro 2024, where he inspired Spain to their record fourth European glory, have catapulted him as one of the marquee players of the Catalan club. However, he will miss Barcelona's pre-season trip as the youngster has embarked on a post-season break following the conclusion of the European championship.