‘I want to be a legend at Barcelona FC’ – Lamine Yamal

Spain’s rising star, Lamine Yamal, expressed his lifelong commitment to Barcelona in a televised interview on Thursday.

The 16-year-old prodigy revealed his dream of staying at the club forever, saying he hopes to “never” leave because he wants to be “a legend” at the Catalan club.

Yamal made his Barcelona debut in April 2023 at the age of 15, making him one of the youngest players in the club’s history.

His talent quickly shone through, and he became a crucial player for Barcelona in the following season, captivating fans with his skill and maturity on the field. Yamal’s ambition is clear, to carve out a long and storied career with Barcelona, the club he has grown up in.

“I hope I never leave (Barcelona), I want to be a legend at Barca,” the 17-year-old replied on the hit show ‘El Hormiguero’ on Spanish private television Antena 3.

Spain’s latest football sensation, who turned 17 in July, played an instrumental role in helping his country secure their fourth Euro title in 2024.

His performance not only contributed to Spain’s triumph but also made him the youngest footballer ever to play and score in the tournament’s history.

At Barcelona, this winger is the most exciting talent to emerge from the famed La Masia academy, drawing comparisons to club legend Lionel Messi.

His skills and potential have made him one of the most talked-about young players in the football world.

“To be compared to the best in history is incredible and that means you’re doing something right but I try to be me and be remembered for myself,” said Yamal.

“It will be very difficult to get to that (Messi’s career achievement), so I hope I will be remembered for being Lamine Yamal,” he said.

The teenager said he felt he was coping with the fame gained from his great Euro performances which included a stunning goal in the semi-final win over France.

“From a young age, at clubs like Barca they prepare you as psychologists. They have been preparing me since I was a child. I’m looking forward to the future,” he said.

“Since the European Championship, everyone is happier, people are more smiling. It was a dream.”