Joan Laporta, president of FC Barcelona, has issued a reassuring message to fans regarding the future of Lamine Yamal, even as the painful memory of Lionel Messi’s 2021 departure continues to cast a shadow over any major contract negotiation at the club.

Speaking to TV3, Laporta confirmed that the renewal of the 16-year-old prodigy is progressing positively, though not yet finalized:

“Everything has been discussed, but it’s not signed. I can’t say it’s done when it’s not. But things look good. He’s an exceptional player and person. He’s very Barça. We’ve seen his attitude. Deco is working on it,” Laporta explained.

The club plans to finalize the contract once Yamal turns 18, which would allow a long-term deal under current FIFA regulations.

Renewals, Signings, and Camp Nou Return

Laporta also provided updates on other key areas:

• Contract renewals are in the works for Frenkie de Jong, Raphinha, and Iñigo Martínez.
• Regarding new signings, Laporta was more cautious: “There will be some signings in key positions, but that’s Deco and Hansi Flick’s responsibility.”

On the stadium front, he confirmed that the Joan Gamper Trophy will take place between August 9 and 10 at the newly renovated Spotify Camp Nou. The full return is expected in late September or early October, with the start of the 2025/26 season played away from home.

“The idea is not to play at Montjuïc anymore—unless something unforeseen happens,” he added.

The Messi Departure Still Haunts the Club

Laporta’s cautious tone around Yamal’s renewal is understandable. In August 2021, despite a full agreement between Messi and the club, financial restrictions imposed by LaLiga and Barça’s ongoing economic struggles prevented the registration of his new contract.

Messi’s tearful farewell and move to PSG remains one of the most emotional and controversial moments in modern football history—and a reminder that no deal is done until it’s signed and sealed.

Now, as Lamine Yamal emerges as the next face of Barça’s future, the club is doing everything it can to avoid repeating the past.