Lamine Yamal: Barcelona’s Rising Star.
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal has swiftly become one of the most impressive young footballers in the world. From his breakthrough debut with Barcelona to his pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, Yamal’s rapid stardom is down to his magnificent natural talent and a relentless drive for winning.
From La Masia to La Liga:
Lamine Yamal Nasraoui Ebana was born in Esplugues de Llobregat on 13th July 2007. After being scouted at six years old, Lamine joined Barcelona’s infamous La Masia academy in 2014. La Masia has produced some of the World’s greatest players over the years; including Leo Messi, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and many more. During the 2022–23 season, Yamal was selected by Barcelona head coach, Xavi Hernandez, to train with the first team. His official Barcelona first team debut came when he was just 15 years, 9 months and 16 days old, being subbed on against Real Betis.
Barca Breakthrough Season:
The 2023–24 season saw Yamal break multiple records, including becoming the youngest La Liga starter, the youngest player to score for Barcelona and in La Liga, and the youngest player to feature in El Clásico. His impressive performances for the club during this season earned Yamal the “Golden Boy” award and a nomination for the Ballon d'Or.
Euro 2024 Victory with Spain
Yamal’s international breakthrough came at Euro 2024, where he played a substantial role in Spain winning their fourth European Championship. He became the youngest player to appear in a EURO Final and the youngest to score in the knockout phase of the tournament. His semi-final goal against France, a curling strike from outside the penalty area, won him goal of the tournament. His performances throughout the competition also earned him the EURO 2024 Young Player Award.
Recognition Worthy 2024–25:
Considering all the expectation and pressure from his impressive first full season with Barcelona, Yamal has hit the ground running in the 2024–25 season. So far during this season, Yamal has scored 16 goals and produced 24 assists in all competitions for Barcelona. With the Copa del Rey and Supercopa de Espana already secured for the season, Yamal is on track to win his second La Liga trophy with Barcelona. His sublime form during Champions League and El Clasico games this season have shone a spotlight on Yamal’s talent, tipping him towards a serious chance of winning the Ballon d’Or.
Praise from Legends:
"What stands out most about Lamine is his intelligence on the pitch. He has an incredible footballing mind and reads the game in a way that few players his age can. He’s destined for greatness."
— Andrés Iniesta
"Lamine is a huge talent. The way he plays for someone his age is incredible. His potential is limitless, and I have no doubt he’ll be a key player for Barcelona and Spain in the future."
— Lionel Messi
"What strikes me about Lamine is his natural ability to find space on the pitch. He has the instincts of a top-level player, even though he’s just getting started. He’s the future of Spanish football."
— Pep Guardiola
Bright Future Ahead:
With a €1 billion release clause in his contract, currently due to end in 2026, Yamal's future at Barcelona looks secure for the foreseeable future. As he continues to break further records and win more titles, Lamine Yamal is not just seen as a rising star—but as the potential future of football.