Barcelona is making headlines again, but this time not because of its sports results or its moves in the transfer market. Controversy has erupted in the locker room after details of Lamine Yamal's new contract became known. The young winger, considered by many as the best talent to emerge from La Masia in the last decade, has signed a salary increase.
Influential players like Frenkie de Jong have expressed their discontent. Both understand Lamine Yamal's potential, but they don't agree with the decision to grant such a high salary to a footballer who has just turned 18 years old. There is some discontent in the locker room, as several believe that important hierarchies within the group are being broken.
The situation has forced Joan Laporta to intervene decisively. Barça's president has made it clear that there will be no turning back regarding Lamine Yamal's new status. The young Catalan winger is not only the future of the blaugrana club, but also its present. In that sense, he believes he deserves to be paid like the great star he already is.
Barça supports Lamine
At Barça, they understand this is a strategic move. Lamine Yamal has attracted the interest of several European giants and ensuring his continuity required securing him financially as well. The club has made a strong commitment to him and isn't willing to lose him under any circumstances.
Laporta has been blunt with the locker room leaders: "Anyone who doesn't agree has the door open." A direct message, with no nuances, that shows just how far they're willing to go to protect the young man from Rocafonda. His number 10 jersey, his major role on the field, and his huge commercial impact make him a key figure in the sporting and economic project of the Barcelona club.
Flick brings peace
Flick, meanwhile, is trying to calm things down. The German coach values Lamine's talent and sees him as an indispensable piece in the team. However, he also understands that managing a locker room with so many personalities isn't easy, especially when money is involved. Group harmony is in question and the coach is working to prevent the conflict from escalating.
For now, Lamine Yamal remains silent. The player is focused on preseason and avoids getting involved in controversies. Lamine knows he's the center of attention, but he wants people to talk about him for his performance on the field and not for salary figures. His inner circle, however, supports the club's decision and believes it's fair that his role as leader of the new Barça is recognized.
The reality is clear: Barcelona has decided to bet on its gem, Lamine is the visible face of the culé future and Laporta isn't willing to allow problems. The locker room will have to adapt to this new reality, with a teenager as the axis of the project. Time will tell if the bet proves successful or if internal tensions end up taking their toll.