For Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona isn’t just a club—it’s home. From joining La Masia at the tender age of 7 to becoming the youngest player to debut for Barcelona in La Liga at 15, Yamal’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Now 17, the prodigy remains steadfast in his commitment to the Blaugrana, pledging to stay and continue shaping his legacy.
“It’s the club of my life,” Yamal shared in an exclusive interview with CNN Sport after being named Emerging Player of the Year at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai. “I hope to renew my contract soon and stay here as long as possible. Barça is where I belong.”
His meteoric rise hasn’t been without challenges. An ankle injury in November temporarily sidelined Yamal, disrupting a stellar start to the season that included 21 appearances, six goals, and 11 assists. Despite the setback, he remains focused as Barcelona prepares for the Spanish Super Cup—a chance to reclaim silverware and rejuvenate their campaign.
“It’s been an adjustment under Coach Hansi Flick,” Yamal admitted. “The style is different, but we’re adapting and giving everything to win trophies in 2025, starting with the Super Cup.”
Barcelona’s ambitions extend beyond domestic success. After losing the La Liga title to Real Madrid last season, Yamal is determined to reclaim it. “Of course we can win,” he said confidently. “It’s about focus. We’ve proven in key moments that we’re the best.”
On the European stage, Barcelona is poised for success, sitting second in the Champions League standings with games against Benfica and Atalanta remaining. Yamal dreams of helping his team secure their first Champions League title in a decade, a feat last achieved during the legendary “MSN” era of Messi, Suárez, and Neymar.
Speaking of Neymar, Yamal credits the Brazilian icon as a major influence. “He’s my idol,” he said, recalling watching Neymar at Santos and later at Barcelona. “Seeing him in person was unforgettable.”
The past year has been monumental for Yamal. He set records as the youngest scorer in El Clásico, youngest player in Champions League knockouts, and youngest European Championship scorer. Internationally, he helped Spain claim their first Euro title since 2012.
Balancing fame and studies, Yamal even managed to complete Spain’s secondary education while dazzling on the pitch. “Winning the Euros and passing my exams—it’s been an incredible year,” he said.
Now fully focused on football, Yamal is determined to keep breaking barriers. Whether it’s leading Barcelona to glory or inspiring the next generation, the teenager has his sights set on greatness.
As Yamal said, quoting his mother’s advice: “Enjoy the moment because everything goes by so quickly.” With his talent and drive, his journey promises many more moments worth savoring.