At FC Barcelona, they know a summer of changes is coming. One of the decisions already made is the departure of Ansu Fati, who will leave the club after failing to establish himself as a key piece. His departure will free up a very symbolic spot in the squad: the number 10 jersey.
That number, which Leo Messi wore with pride for over a decade and was previously donned by figures like Ronaldinho or Maradona, has been without a real owner for too long. The pressure of wearing it has been one of the major factors negatively impacting Ansu's tenure. At Barça, they believe it's time to give that jersey to a footballer who can take on that responsibility with assurance.
Lamine Yamal Is Not the Chosen One
Naturally, Lamine Yamal's name was the first to come up within the club. At just 17 years old, he has become the most disruptive player in the squad and a global media phenomenon. It's not an exaggeration to say he is destined to mark an era at Barça and in the national team.
However, Hans-Dieter Flick has put a stop to the idea of Lamine inheriting the 10 at this moment. The coach believes it's still too soon to place such a significant symbolic weight on his shoulders. Although he trusts his talent, he wants to protect him and not rush his maturation process with added pressure.
Instead, he proposes that the young player continue wearing the number 19, which has already become his brand at this stage. The coach's bet is to let him grow without the condition of being the new bearer of Messi's 10.
Flick and His Standoff with Nike
This decision by Flick hasn't been received enthusiastically by all sectors of the club. The multinational Nike, Barça's main technical sponsor, is pushing for the 10 to be handed to Lamine Yamal. From a commercial perspective, the impact would be immediate and global.
Nevertheless, Flick remains firm in his position. He has conveyed to Joan Laporta and Deco that it's time to think about sports and not media. His goal is to balance the locker room and protect the development of young stars.
To this end, he has put forward a name he considers ideal to take on the legacy of the 10. It is a player already established, with international experience, and who has also performed at a high level this season when injuries have allowed.
The Chosen One Meets All the Requirements
Flick's proposal meets several objectives at once. On one hand, it continues the tradition of the number 10 as a symbol of football leadership on the field. On the other, it avoids burdening a teenager who is just starting his career with responsibilities.
This player has already shown his maturity on and off the field, has a voice in the locker room, and is a figure respected by his teammates. Moreover, he knows perfectly well what it means to wear that jersey in high-demand competitions.
His performance this season has been remarkable, with eight goals and five assists in just 28 matches. He is a versatile footballer, with game vision, the ability to lead attacks, and a personality that fits perfectly with Flick's idea.
The Current Number 10 of the Spanish National Team
The player Hansi Flick wants to see with Barça's number 10 is none other than Dani Olmo. He currently already wears that number with the Spanish national team and has defended it brilliantly in international tournaments.
Joan Laporta and Deco now have the final say. Will they follow the coach's advice and bet on a proven player? Or will they give in to the pressure from Nike and the fans who dream of seeing Lamine Yamal with the 10 on his back?
For now, what is clear is that Lamine will have to wait. The 10 is reserved for someone who has already proven to be ready to wear it. That someone, according to Flick, is Dani Olmo.