In FC Barcelona's upcoming season, their cherished number '10' may proudly grace the back of rising star Lamine Yamal's jersey. Swapping the lightweight tag of '27' for the legendary '10', discussions are afoot within the club over Lamine Yamal's potential for immense commercial appeal, according to Catalunya Ràdio as reported on their video podcast, 'Barça Reserva'. The spot has recently been warmed by current Brighton player Ansu Fati, borrowing it during his loan stint. If Fati doesn't come back for it, the illustrious '10' will be looking for a new back to call home.
Pinned to the brilliance of FC Barcelona and graced by the likes of Messi, Ronaldinho, Riquelme, and Rivaldo, the '10' is more than a number - it's a symbol of greatness. La Liga's regulations stipulate that only first-team players can display numbers ranging from '1' to '25', meaning that Yamal must change his number once his registration moves from the reserve team to the first team.
The weight of this honourable number isn't lost on the club's higher-ups. Entrusting such a heavy legacy to the shoulders of a 16-year-old yet to debut is a decision fraught with risk, responsibility, and perhaps, a dash of audacity. In the wings, three jersey numbers are waiting their turn - the '10', the '12', and the '24', each eager to meet the first-team. As debates over the destinies of these numbers continue, one question lingers. With Fati still on loan, is it too soon to even debate over the fate of the fabled '10'?
