Barcelona confirm Lamine Yamal contract extension until 2026
Barcelona have officially confirmed that Lamine Yamal, the talented teenage football player, has inked a fresh three-year contract with the club. Originally set to expire at the end of the ongoing season, the 16-year-old has now extended his commitment to Barcelona until the summer of 2026, shortly after his 19th birthday.
In the renewal agreement, Barcelona has included an astounding €1 billion (£866 million) release clause for Yamal, placing him on par with notable players such as Ansu Fati, Raphinha, Gavi, Alejandro Balde, and Ferran Torres.
Reports suggest that the Spanish international had given his consent to the new deal during the summer, but he officially put pen to paper with his beloved club on Monday. President Joan Laporta, along with vice president Rafa Yuste, sporting director Deco, and academy director Joan Soler, were in attendance for the momentous contract signing, ensuring the future of a player who has already shattered numerous records in his budding career.
Born in 2007, Lamine Yamal, a winger, has been an integral part of Barcelona since the tender age of seven. He etched his name in the history books as Barcelona's youngest-ever debutant, stepping onto the field against Real Betis at the age of 15.
Under the guidance of head coach Xavi, Yamal has continued to impress, accumulating nine appearances for the first team this season, including four starts in the 2023-24 La Liga season. Although the young talent is yet to score his first goal for Barcelona, he made headlines by becoming the youngest player to provide an assist in La Liga. This feat was achieved against Villarreal, where he set up goals for Gavi and Robert Lewandowski in a thrilling 4-3 victory.
Yamal showcased his capabilities further in the recent 1-0 triumph over Sevilla, as his cross was unfortunately deflected into the net by Sergio Ramos in the 76th minute. Prior to this match, he made his debut in the Champions League as a substitute against Royal Antwerp, establishing himself as the second-youngest player ever to have participated in the competition, only preceded by Youssoufa Moukoko of Borussia Dortmund.
His exceptional performances did not go unnoticed, as Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente recognized his talent and included the 16-year-old in the squad for Euro 2024 qualifiers against Cyprus and Georgia in September. Yamal wasted no time in leaving his mark, becoming the youngest appearance maker and goalscorer in Spain's history during a resounding 7-1 victory over Georgia. Subsequently, he played for 61 minutes in a commanding 6-0 win against Cyprus.
In light of injuries within the team, Yamal may receive his first Champions League start against Porto, provided Xavi ensures the young player's workload remains appropriate for his age. Additionally, Barcelona has the option of using Ferran Torres on the right-hand side of the attack as a suitable replacement, demonstrating the depth of talent available to the squad.
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