Yamal, 16, is currently under contract until 2026, but is widely expected to sign an extension after he turns 18 in July. Speaking to ESPN, Deco expressed little doubt about the winger's future.

"A player has to be happy where they are, but I can't see a better place for Lamine to be," Deco said. "The boy grew up here; he's from here. This generation has the chance to make history."

Yamal has emerged as one of the breakout stars of the 2024–25 season, delivering 16 goals and 24 assists across all competitions. His influence has been crucial in helping Barca claim both the Spanish Supercopa and Copa del Rey, while the team stands on the verge of winning LaLiga following a decisive Clasico win over Real Madrid.

Now just two points away from sealing the title, Barcelona could be crowned champions as early as Wednesday if Madrid fail to beat Mallorca. If not, a win in Thursday's city derby against Espanyol would secure a domestic treble.

Alongside fellow homegrown talents Pedri, Alejandro Balde, and Pau Cubarsi, Yamal represents a core that Barcelona hopes will power them into a new era of dominance.

"Putting myself in his shoes, I would want to be here, to be part of this," Deco added. "I don't see any issue - he has a contract, and the renewal will happen."

Despite the club's impressive form, Deco is wary of becoming overly reliant on Yamal and Raphinha, who have carried much of the attacking load this season. Barcelona have scored 167 goals in 57 matches, but depth on the flanks remains a concern heading into the summer.

"If we can improve, that's always an option, but the key is to consolidate what we have for the coming years," said the former Portugal international. "Suddenly, we feel quite dependent on Raphinha and Lamine. Maybe we need similar players - solutions when they're not available."

Barcelona's resurgence has been more than domestic. The club also reached the UEFA Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2019, narrowly falling 7-6 on aggregate to Inter Milan in a two-legged thriller.

"The idea at the start of the season was to compete with the best," Deco said. "We've done that - and with a young squad. The season has slightly exceeded expectations."

If Barcelona clinch LaLiga this week, it will cap a transformative season - one defined by the rise of a bold new generation and anchored by a teenager who looks poised to become the face of the club.

Bongani Zungu > Career > Personal life > Stats