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Lamine Yamal chooses surprise new squad number at Barcelona as Euro 2024 star opts against Lionel Messi’s famous No. 10
Lamine Yamal has reportedly chosen a new squad number at Barcelona, opting not to wear Lionel Messi’s iconic No. 10 jersey.
Barcelona has registered Yamal and Pau Cubarsi as first-team players for La Liga following their breakthrough season in 2023/24. With this promotion comes the privilege of new kit numbers, a significant milestone for any footballer.
According to Jijantes, Yamal has selected the No. 19 shirt for the upcoming season, amidst much speculation about whether he would take over Messi’s legendary No. 10.
There were also suggestions that Yamal might consider the No. 17 shirt, recently vacated by Marcos Alonso, after wearing No. 27 last season. However, he surprised many by choosing No. 19, a number he recently wore while representing Spain at UEFA Euro 2024.
The No. 19 shirt carries its own legacy at FC Barcelona. It has been worn by notable players such as Franck Kessie, Ferran Torres, and Sergio Aguero.
Even Lionel Messi donned the No. 19 between 2005 and 2008 before eventually taking on the No. 10. Another Barça legend, Patrick Kluivert, wore the number during the 1998/99 season. Yamal’s choice of this number connects him to a history of significant players while allowing him to establish his own identity within the club.
Yamal’s rise has been meteoric, setting multiple records for Barcelona during the 2023/24 season. His recent heroics in Euro 2024, where he helped Spain secure their fourth European title, have elevated him to a marquee player for the Catalan club. However, he will miss Barcelona’s pre-season trip as he is on a post-season break following the European championship.