The club announced the decision on Wednesday, just days after Yamal celebrated his 18th birthday.

The highly rated winger inherits the iconic number from Ansu Fati, who wore it following Messi's departure in 2021 but recently joined AS Monaco on loan. Yamal becomes the latest in a prestigious line of number 10s at Barca, following the likes of Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Romário, Diego Maradona, and, most notably, Messi - Barcelona's all-time leading scorer and a four-time Champions League winner.

"When I was a child, my dream was to debut for Barça, to grow up and play with the No. 10," Yamal said during Wednesday's presentation, which also marked the official celebration of his contract extension until 2031. "Every kid born in Barcelona dreams of that. Messi has made his way, and I'm going to make mine."

Yamal has quickly risen to prominence since making his first-team debut in the 2022–23 season. After wearing No. 41, then 27, and most recently 19 - the number Messi wore prior to inheriting number 10 - Yamal now takes on the shirt that carries the most historical weight at the club.

Despite his young age, Yamal has already amassed 106 appearances and 25 goals for Barca and has become a central figure for the Spanish national team as well. His contributions helped Spain lift the UEFA European Championship last year, and he has already collected two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, and a Spanish Supercopa with Barcelona.

The announcement comes as Yamal faces external scrutiny, with an investigation by the Spanish government into potential disability law violations stemming from his birthday celebration. Reports allege individuals with dwarfism were hired as entertainers at the event. Neither the player nor his representatives have publicly commented on the investigation.

Yamal appeared unfazed by the off-pitch attention. "I'm a bit indifferent to both criticism and praise if it doesn't come from my family or friends," he said. "Right now, I'm very focused on football."

Barcelona's new number 10 has also made clear his personal ambitions. "I haven't won the Champions League and the World Cup," he stated. "These are my goals now."

With the backing of the club and the symbolic passing of the torch, Yamal is poised to shape his own legacy - one that now begins under the shadow and inspiration of one of the greatest to ever wear the shirt.

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