The FC Barcelona locker room has changed its hierarchies in recent months, and one of the main people responsible for this is Lamine Yamal. The young striker has established himself not only as the great prospect, but also as the footballer expected to lead the future project at Camp Nou. His long-term contract renewal confirmed the central role he will have within the institution, accompanied by an improved contract and a significant jersey number, the legendary number "10".
With that importance, Lamine has taken on a role that's not usually common for a footballer his age: Influencing some decisions that affect the squad. At the start of this season, he has paid special attention to the situation of a friend of his in the locker room.
Complicated situation in the locker room
The footballer in question is Héctor Fort, a La Masia youth product, who's not going through an easy time at Barça. Despite his young age and promising career, Flick has made it clear from day one that he isn't in its immediate plans for the first team. The German coach believes he still lacks experience and isn't ready to take on a leading role, so his participation during the season would be very limited.
This scenario is compounded by the emergence of Eric García as right back, who's convinced the coaching staff and earned minutes even ahead of Jules Koundé. This has further reduced Fort's chances of having a prominent role, which led the club to consider options such as a loan or even a permanent transfer. However, Lamine Yamal doesn't want to be without his friend's company and has expressed his wish for him to stay in the locker room.
Between Yamal's will and the reality of the market
The board, led by Joan Laporta and Deco, now faces a complex decision: Meet the request of its young star or give priority to Flick's sporting plan. Although Yamal is just starting his career, his influence is already notable and his voice is starting to carry weight in internal conversations. Meanwhile, there's also interest from outside.
Aston Villa, with Monchi as sporting director, has inquired about Fort's situation and the financial conditions that his signing would entail. The operation will depend, to a large extent, on how much Barça wants or doesn't want to listen to Yamal and keep a footballer who currently has no place. The outcome, therefore, will be a test to measure how far the striker's new leadership role within the club goes.