Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal Set to Sign Long-Term Contract Extension

Barcelona‘s rising star Lamine Yamal has confirmed he will sign a new long-term contract with the Catalan club, pledging his future to the team he calls “the club of my life.” The 17-year-old winger, whose current deal expires in 2026, is set to extend his stay until at least 2030, with a €1 billion ($1 billion) release clause included in the agreement.

“I don’t know when [the contract will be signed], but I believe it will be soon,” Yamal said in an interview. “At the end of the day, Barça is the club of my life. I hope to renew my contract with them and to be with them for as long as possible. I want to play in the Spanish league. I want to play for Barça, and yes, I will renew my contract. I will.”

Yamal joined Barcelona’s youth academy in 2014 and made history in 2023 when he became the club’s youngest-ever debutant at just 15 years old. Since then, he has made 72 appearances for the first team, scoring 13 goals, and has become a key player under manager Hansi Flick. His rapid rise has also earned him international recognition, with 17 caps for Spain and a pivotal role in their Euro 2024 victory.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has emphasized the club’s commitment to securing Yamal’s future, citing his exceptional performances at the Euros as a turning point. Despite a recent ankle injury, Yamal is fit and available for selection in Wednesday’s Spanish Supercopa semifinal against Real Madrid in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Yamal’s current contract, signed in 2023, was limited to three years due to his age at the time. However, an informal agreement was reached with his agent, Jorge Mendes, to negotiate a longer-term deal once he turned 18. The new contract reflects Barcelona’s confidence in Yamal’s potential to become one of the world’s top players.

“He is a special talent, and we are thrilled to have him commit his future to Barcelona,” Laporta said. “Lamine represents the future of this club, and we are building something great around young players like him.”

Yamal’s commitment comes at a crucial time for Barcelona, who are looking to rebuild their squad with a focus on youth development. The club has faced financial challenges in recent years, but securing Yamal’s future is seen as a significant step toward long-term stability and success.