Barcelona President Joan Laporta stated that the time has come for young star Lamine Yamal to become the face of the Catalan team, emphasizing that the player possesses the personality and potential needed to shine on football's biggest stages.
اضافة اعلان
Speaking on the eve of the 2026 World Cup final, Laporta recalled the historic legacy of Argentine star Lionel Messi with Barcelona, while simultaneously asserting that Lamine Yamal represents the new generation capable of carrying the club's identity into the coming years.
The 2026 World Cup final holds special significance for Barcelona, as it features nine current and former players from the "La Masia" academy in the biggest match in world football, reflecting the Catalan academy's ongoing influence in producing top talent.
While reaffirming that Messi’s place in Barcelona's history remains untouchable, Laporta stressed that every era has its stars, and the time has come for Lamine Yamal to write his own chapter.
The Barcelona president said: "I think this is Lamine's moment now. I want this to be his moment. Messi gave us many years of glory and will always remain a part of the glorious and wonderful past in our club's history."
During the interview, Laporta was also asked about the famous photo taken years ago showing Lionel Messi holding a baby Lamine Yamal and bathing him during a charity photoshoot organized by the Barcelona Foundation. The image went viral across social media platforms ahead of the World Cup final.
Laporta commented on the historic snapshot, noting that it has taken on immense symbolic value given Lamine Yamal's incredible trajectory, as the young Spanish star continues to establish himself among the most prominent talents in world football.
