Lamine Yamal has inherited Lionel Messi’s number 19 shirt at Barcelona, the iconic No.10 is surely to follow, and could soon continue in the legend’s footsteps with adidas as well.
Messi has long been adidas’ flagship player, enjoying his own personal branding, boots and clothing ranges with the sportswear giant for years. But the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will turn 38 next summer and his career is ultimately beginning to wind down.
Yamal, who debuted for Barca aged 15, wore Nike boots following his initial breakthrough, aligning with the club’s long-term kit partner.
But adidas won the battle of the brands this year, signing the teenage prodigy to a partnership in February. Five months later, he lit up the European Championship with Spain off the back of an incredible club season, and has continued to go from strength to strength.
Now, adidas appear to have big plans. Kit and boot specialist Footy Headlines has reported that they are considering making Yamal what is termed a ‘signature player’ in the near future.
That is more than just having boots supplied and being paid to be a brand ambassador. Yamal would join a select group of players alongside Messi, which also includes Jude Bellingham and Mohamed Salah, who have their own branding within adidas. Yamal could even directly replace Messi as the leading ‘speed’ player under the adidas umbrella when the legendary Argentine retires.
Even at the age of just 17, Yamal has got himself into a position where he is arguably his club’s most important player. He has already managed ten goals and assists in 11 appearances across all competitions, with Barcelona winning every La Liga game he has started to top the table. It is telling that when the youngster began on the bench for the recent Osasuna clash, the team lost.
