Lamine Yamal has already established himself as one of the brightest young stars in world football following a breakout season with FC Barcelona. As top clubs across Europe circle, a newly implemented La Liga rule may now help Barcelona secure his long-term future.
With interest from giants like Paris Saint-Germain and Barca still navigating financial challenges, concerns have emerged about a possible departure when Yamal’s contract expires. However, those fears may be eased by a new regulation introduced by Spanish football’s governing body.
La Liga has approved a rule allowing clubs to renew the contracts of players under the age of 24, even if they exceed their salary cap. While Barcelona has previously struggled to register players like Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor due to these financial constraints, this rule would not apply in Yamal’s case.
To qualify under this provision, a player must have been fully contracted to the club for at least three consecutive seasons. With Yamal coming up through La Masia and contributing to the first team over multiple seasons, he meets the criteria to sign an extension under this new regulation.
The rule is designed to protect emerging domestic talent and prevent young stars from leaving La Liga for other leagues. Yamal’s current contract runs through June 2026, but once he turns 18, Barcelona is expected to offer him a long-term deal under these revised terms.
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Yamal’s ambition to make history at Barcelona
As comparisons to Lionel Messi continue to grow, Yamal has made it clear that he envisions a future tied to the club that raised him. In an interview with Spanish TV show El Hormiguero in September 2024, the winger expressed his commitment to Barca:
“I don’t want anyone to pay the €120 million release clause because that would mean I’d have to leave Barca. I hope I never have to leave. I want to become a legend,” Yamal stated, reassuring his commitment with the Spanish side, where he’s already broken several records.