Lamine Yamal is riding the crest of a wave and there’s not a footballer on the planet who wouldn’t love to play with him.
Lamine Yamal’s admiration for Kevin De Bruyne—and his dream of playing alongside him—has sent imaginations running wild, especially after his explosive performance against Inter Milan. While a move to Manchester City seems virtually impossible due to his €1 billion release clause, the prospect of De Bruyne joining Barcelona instead is a fascinating reverse possibility.
With De Bruyne’s future at City increasingly uncertain amid age, injuries, and rumors of a Saudi or MLS exit, a final European chapter at a club like Barcelona—rebuilding with a talented new core—could be compelling. And for Yamal, the vision of supplying and receiving passes from one of the best midfielders of his generation must be irresistible.
Kevin De Bruyne’s impending exit from Manchester City marks the end of an era—and the beginning of a high-stakes tug-of-war for one of football’s most cerebral playmakers. With his next destination likely to be shaped by a blend of ambition, family life, and legacy, Barcelona’s name entering the conversation—however faintly—would be a massive twist.
Though the Catalans may not be financial frontrunners compared to Saudi or MLS suitors, the allure of a final European adventure, mentoring rising stars like Lamine Yamal, and chasing one more Champions League with a rejuvenated Barça under Hansi Flick might appeal to De Bruyne’s footballing heart.
Whether Yamal’s admiration has any bearing remains to be seen—but if Barcelona’s board is paying attention, this could be the summer to make an audacious move.
