First Lamine Yamal inherits Lionel Messi’s iconic kit No. 10 — Now loanee Marcus Rashford gets his idol’s number at Barcelona

The winds of change are blowing through Camp Nou. After Lamine Yamal took up the iconic No. 10 jersey, a symbol of Lionel Messi’s unforgettable legacy, another symbolic number has found a new owner. In a move that marks one of the most anticipated transfers of the summer, Marcus Rashford has officially joined Barcelona — and with his arrival comes not only a new chapter in his career but a powerful tribute to his soccer idol.

After months of speculation and negotiations, the Englishman was unveiled as a Barcelona player, completing a loan deal that will keep him at the club until June 2026, with a non-mandatory purchase clause of $35 million. The announcement was made in front of fans and media at the club’s official store, a few steps away from the iconic — though currently inactive — Camp Nou.

“I’m where I wanted to be. I mean no disrespect to any other club, but I would’ve waited even longer if it meant joining Barca,” Rashford said in his first press conference as a Blaugrana player.

But perhaps the most eye-catching part of his presentation wasn’t just his words — it was the jersey number he will wear.

Number steeped in history

Rashford will don the number 14 shirt at Barcelona, a number steeped in club history. It was worn by Johan Cruyff, one of the most influential figures in the club’s identity, and later by Thierry Henry, Rashford’s boyhood idol.

“I know the history behind this number. I feel a huge responsibility. I’m honored to wear it, as Cruyff and Henry did,” the 27-year-old explained, visibly moved.

The shirt had recently become available following the departure of Pablo Torre, and while there were whispers that the Englishman might take No. 19 — a number he wore during his early days at Manchester United — the final decision carried more meaning.

Bond with Barcelona — and Lamine Yamal

Rashford is already making an impression at his new club. On his first day of training, he singled out Lamine Yamal as one of the standout players at Barça.

“He’s a special talent. I honestly think he was already one of the best — if not the best — players in the world last season. It’ll be fun to play alongside him,” Rashford said with a smile.

It’s no secret Rashford had his eyes on Barcelona for months. He often expressed admiration for the club on social media and openly stated his desire to link up with Yamal — a sentiment that didn’t go unnoticed by the Blaugrana hierarchy.