Barcelona’s Yamal Plan: A New Approach to Avoid Another Messi Situation

Published March 23rd, 2025 - 08:25 GMT
From Messi to Yamal: How Barcelona Plans to Fix Its Contract Mistakes
From Messi to Yamal: How Barcelona Plans to Fix Its Contract Mistakes (Photo by MANAURE QUINTERO / AFP)

Barcelona is carefully planning the future of its rising star, Lamine Yamal, to avoid repeating past contract mistakes, particularly those that led to Lionel Messi’s eventual departure.

According to AS, the club is determined to handle Yamal’s renewal differently—ensuring both financial stability and a long-term commitment from the player without jeopardizing the club’s future.

A Temporary Contract Awaiting a Final Agreement

In 2023, Barcelona signed Yamal to a contract until 2026, the maximum allowed by FIFA regulations for underage players. However, there was already a verbal understanding that once he turned 18, a long-term deal—potentially until 2030—would be signed.

With Yamal’s rapid rise as a key player, the initial contract terms are now outdated, prompting the club to renegotiate an agreement that better reflects his growing importance.

Barcelona’s Plan for Financial Stability

Throughout his career, Messi signed nine contract renewals with Barcelona, often receiving salary increases that eventually became unsustainable for the club. To prevent a similar financial burden, Barcelona is determined to take a different approach with Yamal.

The club acknowledges that Yamal deserves to be among the top earners in the squad, but they want to implement a structured, progressive salary model that ensures long-term financial security.

A Long-Term Strategy

By adopting a strategic and balanced approach, Barcelona aims to secure Yamal’s future without compromising financial stability. Given his continued development and rising market value, the club knows that the key is finding the perfect balance between rewarding his talent and maintaining financial responsibility.

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