Barcelona sporting director Deco has spoken publicly about the club’s contract talks with rising star Lamine Yamal, emphasising that while the teenager should be fairly compensated, the focus should not be on making him the highest earner.
His remarks come amid ongoing negotiations to secure Yamal’s long-term future at the Camp Nou.
Yamal, who has roots in Equatorial Guinea and Morocco, is widely regarded as one of the most promising young players in Europe.
Despite being only 17, he has become a regular for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team, impressing fans and experts alike with his composure and technical brilliance.
Deco praised the youngster’s development and composure but cautioned that the club remains mindful of his age.
“He’s on the right track. First of all, we see him with extraordinary maturity. We’re happy with him. We have to enjoy it,” Deco said.
He added, “It’s something unique that comes along every few years, to see a player with so much confidence and quality, but we mustn’t forget that he’s 17 years old.”
While acknowledging Yamal’s impact, Deco was clear that the renewal process should reflect balance rather than excessive reward.
“He has to have a fair contract, one that matches his quality. He doesn’t have to be the highest paid or not, he has to be valued for who he is,” he said.
Deco also noted the importance of personal well-being for a player of Yamal’s age, stating, “No matter how mature he is, he’s still 17 years old and has to live his life at that age. The world at his age is very complicated, and he has to be happy.”
He concluded confidently: “There’s no better club for him than Barcelona.”
