Barcelona sporting director says the youngster will be at the club “for the next few years”
Barcelona sporting director Deco has laid down a clear challenge to Lamine Yamal, saying that the teenager’s future at the top of the game will be determined by his own dedication and focus.
In an interview with Marca, Deco described the 17-year-old winger as a “phenomenon” but warned that talent alone would not be enough to fulfil the enormous expectations that have surrounded him since his breakthrough season.
“Lamine Yamal is a phenomenon,” said Deco. “Being the best in the world depends on him, but he will be at Barca for the next few years, competing at the highest level, in the Champions League, in La Liga, competing with Real Madrid and the big clubs.
“I also say this for the Spain national team, which will shine in tournaments because it’s very strong.”
Yamal has emerged as one of the brightest prospects in world football after a standout 2024-25 campaign in which he registered 18 goals and 25 assists across all competitions and topped the assist charts in La Liga (15).
Despite his age, Yamal has also become a regular for the Spanish national team and is expected to be central to Spain’s plans for the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Barcelona will be hoping he becomes as big a success story as Lionel Messi, another teenager they placed at the centre of their sporting project over a decade ago.
Yet before his 18th birthday Messi made only nine appearances for Barcelona. Yamal has made over 100.
“He grew up in the neighbourhoods of Mataro, and that’s helped him to become so mature now,” said Deco. “He understands he has a responsibility as a player.”
