Just days after Hansi Flick was named La Liga’s Coach of the Season, Barcelona is celebrating once again. This Thursday, Lamine Yamal was honored as the Best U-23 Player of the Season.
The emergence of the young No. 19 has been one of the biggest positives for the team this year, and La Liga has recognized the Rocafonda native, who, at just 17 years old, has played a key role in the squad.
After already contributing five goals and seven assists in the 2023/24 season, the La Masia product took another leap this year. Under Hansi Flick’s system, Lamine scored nine goals and provided 13 assists across 35 league matches. His impact also earned him individual accolades, including La Liga’s Player of the Month for September and U-23 Player of the Month in both August and February—capping off a season full of personal and team successes.
His international breakthrough
Beyond the numbers, fans have been thrilled by the flair and quality Yamal brings to the field. Following in the footsteps of Pedri (2021) and Gavi (2022), the winger claimed both the Kopa Trophy and the Golden Boy award in 2024, solidifying his status as one of the brightest young stars in world football. With this latest La Liga recognition, his position as the present and future of Spanish soccer is undeniable.
The future is Blaugrana
With his recent contract extension through 2031, Barcelona has secured a cornerstone for the club’s future. Expectations are sky-high, but at only 17, Lamine Yamal is already proving to be a difference-maker for the Catalan giants. This award adds to the growing collection of a player who has consistently shown ambition, talent, and deep commitment to the Barça crest.