Lamine Yamal’s rise in top-flight soccer has sparked comparisons to Lionel Messi, largely due to his style of play. But one key element is still missing to complete that narrative—Barcelona’s iconic No. 10 jersey. While referencing Messi, Yamal made it clear where he stands on taking over that legendary number next season.
Barcelona’s No. 10 is one of the most revered numbers in world soccer, previously worn by icons like Diego Maradona, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, and, of course, Lionel Messi. After Messi’s departure in 2021, the number was handed to Ansu Fati, who has struggled to live up to expectations as the club’s next great star.
Speaking to Cadena SER’s El Larguero, Yamal was asked about the possibility of donning the No. 10 jersey. He quickly shut down the idea: “I have the No. 19. It’s a number I really like and it has brought me a lot of luck. Things went very well for me at the Euros, and now also at Barca.“
The 16-year-old made it clear that he has no plans to change unless told otherwise. “I’ll keep wearing the No. 19 until someone tells me I have to change. I don’t feel any extra pressure from wearing one number or another (…) The No. 10 belongs to Ansu, a great player who wears it very well,” he stated.
Though Ansu Fati currently wears the No. 10, his future at Barcelona appears uncertain. The winger has logged just 298 minutes across 11 appearances this season—averaging only 27 minutes per game—and is reportedly not part of new head coach Hansi Flick’s plans.
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According to Mundo Deportivo, French club AS Monaco is interested in acquiring Fati this summer. If a transfer goes through, the No. 10 jersey would become available for the 2025–26 campaign—and many believe Yamal is the natural heir to it.
Yamal and his bond with No. 19
Throughout his breakout year for both Spain and Barcelona, Yamal has worn No. 19, a number that has become synonymous with his emergence. The young winger recently explained why he chose it—citing both a personal connection and his admiration for Lionel Messi.
“Nico Williams really likes Cristiano Ronaldo, and I like Messi. Cristiano wore No. 17, and Leo Messi wore No. 19. Before the Euros, the No. 11, 10, and 7 weren’t available. Only 17 and 19 were free. I think it brought me luck—everything turned out pretty well,” Yamal stated, addressing Messi as one of the reasons why he picked that number.
