Lamine Yamal Makes History as the Youngest Scorer in La Liga
Lamine Yamal, a 16-year-old winger for Barcelona, has made history by becoming the youngest scorer in La Liga history. Yamal achieved this feat during Barcelona’s match against Granada on Sunday, scoring at the age of 16 years and 87 days. This record-breaking goal came in first-half stoppage time when Yamal walked the ball into an empty net after collecting a loose ball from Joao Felix at the back post. The goal helped Barcelona come from two goals down to draw 2-2.
Yamal’s achievement surpasses the previous record held by Fabrice Olinga, who scored for Malaga against Celta Vigo at the age of 16 years and 98 days in 2012. This remarkable accomplishment adds to Yamal’s list of records this year. In May, he became the youngest player in La Liga history when he came off the bench against Real Betis at the age of 15 years and 290 days. He then became Barcelona’s youngest starter at 16 years and 38 days old against Cadiz in August. In September, Yamal became Spain’s youngest international player and goalscorer at the age of 16 years and 57 days when he scored in a 7-1 win against Georgia.
Yamal’s impressive performances have earned him a new three-year contract with Barcelona, keeping him at the club until 2026. Despite initially being expected to play a more significant role with Barcelona Atletic, the club’s second team, Yamal’s breakthrough this season, including his international debut with Spain, has solidified his place in the first team.
In the current season, Yamal has made 11 appearances for Barcelona, with five of them as a starter. He has also provided two assists, showcasing his versatility and impact on the team. His rapid rise to success has attracted attention from clubs across Europe, but Barcelona has managed to secure his future with the club.
Barcelona’s draw against Granada leaves them in third place heading into October’s international break. Bryan Zaragoza had scored twice for Granada within the opening half an hour, giving them a 2-0 lead. However, Yamal’s goal just before half time and Sergi Roberto’s equalizer in the 85th minute salvaged a point for Barcelona. They were denied a late winner by an offside flag.
Looking ahead, Barcelona will face Athletic Bilbao on October 22 as they aim to climb up the La Liga table. With Yamal’s exceptional talent and impact on the team, Barcelona will be hoping for more record-breaking performances from the young winger.
Analysis from Barcelona Correspondent Pol Ballus highlights Yamal as the brightest youth prospect at the club. Despite not having made his debut with Barcelona Atletic, the club’s B team, Yamal joined Xavi’s first-team training sessions at the start of last season. This path mirrors that of Gavi, who also joined the first team straight from the under-19s.
Yamal, a local boy born in Esplugues de Llobregat near Barcelona, has been with the club since he was six years old. He possesses exceptional ball-handling skills, particularly when cutting inside from the right wing to central positions. His physical development is advanced for his age, and he has remained injury-free, contributing to his rapid progression.
Lamine Yamal’s historic achievement as the youngest scorer in La Liga history solidifies his status as one of the most promising young talents in football. With his contract extension and continued opportunities with Barcelona’s first team, Yamal has a bright future ahead. Football fans around the world will be eagerly watching his development and expecting more extraordinary performances from this young prodigy.