Barcelona's rising star Lamine Yamal has emphatically declared his unwavering loyalty to the Catalan club, stating it would be "impossible" for him to consider playing elsewhere, despite reported interest from other top European clubs.
The 17-year-old prodigy addressed recent speculation about his future, particularly responding to claims made by Barcelona president Joan Laporta that the club had rejected a substantial €250 million (£260m) bid from Paris Saint-Germain last summer.
"I don't hear about it," Yamal told Mundo Deportivo when questioned about PSG's interest. "If someone in my camp does, they wouldn't have told me, either. Firstly, and above all, because I have a contract and then because I think it's impossible that I would go to another club."
While Yamal's current contract runs until 2026, ESPN has reported that a verbal agreement is in place to extend his stay until 2030 once he turns 18. The young talent expressed his deep connection to Barcelona, stating, "I don't think anyone doubts how much I love this club. I have said as much since I made my debut and everything will be resolved in the end."
The teenage sensation has been instrumental in Barcelona's current campaign, contributing five goals and a league-leading 11 assists in LaLiga, helping position the team at the top of the table. With the title race intensifying, Yamal expressed confidence in his team's abilities, saying, "We have to think that we're the best team and the side that play the best football, and I think we are. We play the best football and we want to win LaLiga."
Addressing the recent controversy surrounding refereeing in Spanish football, particularly Real Madrid's claims about officials "adulterating" the competition, Yamal showed remarkable maturity in his response. He expressed empathy for match officials, noting that "A referee's job is really difficult. If you whistle one way, the other team will complain. And if neither complains, another team that's not playing does."
The young star emphasized that none of the title contenders - Barcelona, Real Madrid, or Atlético Madrid - have grounds for complaint about officiating. He pointed out that controversial moments in matches between smaller teams often receive less attention, demonstrating a broader understanding of the challenges facing match officials.
As Barcelona continues their pursuit of domestic and European success, Yamal remains focused on the immediate challenges ahead. "Right now I am focused on LaLiga, the Champions League and the Copa del Rey," he stated, with the promise of his contract extension looming in July when he turns 18.
