Yamal: Barcelona Star Becomes Youngest Starter in Champions League History

Yamal: Barcelona Star Becomes Youngest Starter in Champions League History

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
updated at October 5, 2023 at 8:05 AM
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  • Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal has set a new UEFA Champions League record
  • The 16-year-old reached the milestone during Barcelona's game against FC Porto
  • Yamal has shown glimpses of what looks to be a promising career ahead of him

Lamine Yamal has etched his name in the sands of time as he became the youngest starter in UEFA Champions League history.

This remarkable achievement occurred during Barcelona's Group H match against FC Porto at the Estadio do Dragao on October 4.

Lamine Yamal, Celestine Babayaro, youngest, starter, UEFA Champions League, FC Porto, FC Barcelona
Lamine Yamal tried to outwit his marker during Barcelona's UCL clash with FC Porto. Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images
Source: Getty Images

According to statistics by OptaJose, Yamal achieved this remarkable feat at the tender age of 16 years and 83 days, surpassing the previous record held by Celestine Babayaro, who accomplished this milestone at the age of 16 years and 86 days in November 1994 while playing for Anderlecht.

Lamine Yamal's other records

Yamal has been making waves this season with his record-breaking performances.

He previously became the youngest-ever debutant for Barcelona and the second youngest player in the history of the Champions League when he made his debut against Royal Antwerp at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys at just 16 years and 68 days old, as reported by GOAL.

In addition to these achievements, the teenager also holds the record for being the youngest debutant in the history of the Spanish national team.

La Roja head coach, Luis de la Fuente introduced him from the bench during a Euro 2024 qualifier against Georgia last month.

With Raphinha sidelined due to injury, Yamal is poised to assume an even more prominent role in Barcelona going forward.

Lamine signs new Barcelona deal

Sports Brief has also reported on Yamal signing a new deal with Barcelona, with his impressive performances earning him a new deal including a staggering €1 billion release clause.

This new contract will keep the Spanish youngster with the Catalans until 2026, demonstrating the commitment of the club to his long-term development under coach, Xavi Hernandez.

The 16-year-old wonderkid has already made a significant impact this season, despite not yet scoring a goal. He has featured in every Barcelona game this season, garnering many plaudits.

Authors
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe photo
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga editor with five-year experience. He previously worked with Sports Corna and 360SportsGH.
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