Several sources report Joan Laporta will offer Lamine Yamal a mega contract of approximately $7.2-8.3 million per season, making him the third highest-paid player in the Barcelona squad. According to reports, Lamine will also be handed the iconic Number 10 jersey next season.
Is Lamine Yamal Overshadowing More Deserving Players?
This season was one of the best in Barcelona’s history, especially in recent years. It’s a highly acceptable fact that Lamine Yamal was one of our most crucial assets in contributing to this season’s success. The youngster is always in the limelight of fans and media, but doesn’t it make you feel that Lamine is treated extra special than other players? I believe there are many deserving names in the squad. He is still seventeen and this luxury and fame can be unfavorable for him. Regarding the contract situation, I believe some strong candidates should be paid equally to Lamine as per his new contract.
Raphinha had his best season under Hansi Flick. This mentality monster made a sweeping comeback this season to become a fan favorite. He was denoted as a “flop signing” after his poor displays in previous seasons. He changed the opinion of many and after this season’s brilliance, he has a strong chance to lift the Balon d’Or award. The Brazilian not only proved his value with clutch performances, but he also showed his leadership with his outstanding captaincy. He was the reason Barcelona never looked out of the game whenever the team trailed. His mentality was a game-changer for the club this season, a mentality instilled by him that we never witnessed for seasons at this club.
Jules Kounde has been a warrior for us, he has always been exceptional and never gave a reason for Barca fans to be disappointed. The Frenchman is one of the most dedicated and committed players in the squad. Kounde’s hard work deserves all the credit, he became the player who played the most minutes in 2024. Another fact to keep an eye on is, that his natural position is a center-back but for Barcelona, he played as a right-back out of his comfort zone.
Pedri joined the club Barcelona in 2020 and has stood by the club through all its highs and lows. This season, under the guidance of Hansi Flick, his performance has reached new levels. His vision, ability, and composure on the ball remind us of the great Iniesta. There is no doubt, that Pedri has become the heartbeat of our midfield, the whole team looks dull without him, and the source of creativity is missed during his absence. Given his impact and importance to the squad, he deserves recognition as one of the club’s top earners. He is not a normal talent, he is the future of Barcelona.
The Pressure of a Big Contract on Lamine Yamal
Barcelona has already witnessed a heartbreak in Ansu Fati’s case. Fati was also given the special treatment and hype. We all were convinced that he deserved it, but it ended harshly. Overhyping and overlooking Fati’s potential made Laporta give him a mega contract. Fati became the third-highest player at the club. Nobody expected his downfall from the form he was in, this should be another reason why Barcelona should look for baby steps for Lamine’s development. In Messi’s case, we never saw him get the hype youngsters get in this generation. Barcelona took mini steps for Messi’s development, which was the key to his success.
I believe, giving Lamine special treatment at such a tender age can be more harmful than helpful to his development. While his talent is outlandish, overgrowing his status or providing him with all the extras can result in unrealistic expectations and unnecessary pressure. Football history is full of promising youngsters who struggled under the tag of early hype. By treating him differently from his teammates, the club may indirectly hinder his growth. Barcelona should look for a more patient approach instead of hurrying up the situation.