Barcelona chief Deco has claimed that wonderkid Lamine Yamal can have an impact similar to Lionel Messi in the years to come.
The Blaugrana have already sealed perhaps the most crucial signing of their summer, securing a new six-year contract for Spanish star, who will remain with the club until 2031.
At just 15 years old, Yamal made his first-team debut and has since amassed 106 appearances.
His impressive contributions have helped Spain lift the European Championship and earned him both the Golden Boy and Kopa trophies, which are awarded to the world’s best young player.
Yamal was also a pivotal figure in Barcelona’s four El Clasico victories over Real Madrid this season.
Such achievements have prompted comparisons to Barcelona’s legendary figure Messi.
Deco said: “Lamine is Lamine. Leo is Leo. Leo was the best player in the history of this club, for me, the best player in history.
Father and son business. pic.twitter.com/LWhFya4JlO
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 2, 2025
“Everyone becomes crazy when they see Lamine playing football, you would pay to go watch him in the stadium, he’s special and he wanted to stay because he believes in the project. He deserves an improved salary.
“He’s going to be one of the best players in the world. We need to respect him as a player, but not forget he is 17 years old.
“It’s not easy to compare, but Lamine, in terms of quality, can make history like Leo. But of course, to make history, he needs to have a good team behind him.”
Barcelona have experience managing the spotlight that comes with nurturing a generational talent. Deco spoke of the club’s responsibility to ensure Yamal isn’t overwhelmed by external pressures.
He added: “We try to not let him do everything, because, you know, sometimes the sponsors, and everyone wants his shirt or time.
“Sometimes we can’t control everything, but people see his magic, on and off the pitch.
“They want to have a piece of him and we need to help him manage that.”
