Ronaldinho, Messi… Football Stars Who Wore Barcelona’s Iconic No. 10 — Is Yamal the Next?

The number 10 shirt at FC Barcelona is more than just a jersey—it’s a legacy, a symbol of magic, leadership, and world-class talent. Throughout history, this number has been worn by some of the greatest players to ever grace the game. Each of them brought their unique style, flair, and excellence to Camp Nou, creating unforgettable memories for fans across generations. Now, with Lamine Yamal rising through the ranks, the world is watching to see if the teenager is ready to step into this historic role and become the next icon to wear the shirt.

Here are 10 Football stars who wore Barcelona’s Iconic No. 10

1. Lionel Messi (2008–2021)

Lionel Messi is the most iconic number 10 in Barcelona’s history. After inheriting the shirt in 2008, Messi led the team to unprecedented heights. He scored an astonishing 672 goals in 778 appearances, won 10 La Liga titles, 4 Champions League trophies, and claimed 6 Ballon d’Or awards while wearing the jersey. Under his leadership, Barcelona became one of the most dominant clubs in world football, and his legacy continues to define what it means to wear the number 10.

2. Ronaldinho (2003–2008)

Ronaldinho brought joy back to Camp Nou when he arrived in 2003. With his dazzling skills and infectious smile, he lit up every stadium he stepped into. Wearing the number 10, he won 2 La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2006. His performances earned him the Ballon d’Or in 2005, and he is often credited for reviving Barcelona’s spirit and inspiring a young Lionel Messi, who would later take the torch.

3. Rivaldo (1997–2002)

Rivaldo was another Brazilian genius who left a huge impact wearing the number 10. Known for his incredible goals and powerful left foot, he was a key figure for Barcelona in the late ’90s. He helped the team secure 2 La Liga titles and was awarded the Ballon d’Or in 1999. His bicycle kick goal against Valencia is still remembered as one of the greatest in Barcelona history.

4. Diego Maradona (1982–1984)

Before his global dominance at Napoli and for Argentina, Diego Maradona wore Barcelona’s number 10. Though his time at the club was short and marked by injuries, he still won the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup. His brilliance on the pitch set the tone for what wearing the number 10 should represent, pure genius and unmatched creativity.

5. Romário (1993–1995)

Romário brought his goal-scoring prowess to Barcelona in the early ’90s. In the 1993–94 season, he netted 30 goals and led the club to a La Liga title. His elegance in front of goal, technical finesse, and ability to perform in big games earned him the FIFA World Player of the Year award in 1994, reinforcing the prestige of the number 10 jersey.

Read Also: Lamine Yamal might be getting the Barcelona’s beloved no. 10….here’s why

6. Hristo Stoichkov (1990–1998)

Hristo Stoichkov was a fiery, passionate forward who played a central role during Johan Cruyff’s “Dream Team” era. Wearing number 10, he helped the club win 5 La Liga titles and the Champions League in 1992. He was known for his determination, powerful shots, and unmatched work rate. Stoichkov won the Ballon d’Or in 1994 after leading Bulgaria to a World Cup semi-final.

7. Juan Román Riquelme (2002–2003)

Juan Román Riquelme brought elegance and control to the midfield. Though his Barcelona spell was brief and complicated by tactical disagreements, Riquelme wore the number 10 with distinction. His vision, passing range, and composure are still remembered fondly by football purists, even if his full potential wasn’t realized at Camp Nou.

8. Emmanuel Amunike (1996–2000)

Nigerian winger Emmanuel Amunike wore the number 10 during a transitional phase for the club. Though injuries limited his impact, he brought strength, speed, and African flair to the team. He helped Barcelona win the Copa del Rey in 1997, representing the global diversity that has long characterized the club’s identity.

9. Bojan Krkić (2007–2011)

Bojan Krkić emerged from La Masia with immense promise. While he didn’t fully live up to early expectations, his technical skill and understanding of Barcelona’s style were evident. He was part of a golden era, winning multiple La Liga and Champions League titles, and contributed meaningfully during his time in the number 10 shirt.

10. Ansu Fati (2021–2024)

After Messi’s emotional departure, Ansu Fati was handed the number 10—a move that highlighted Barcelona’s confidence in their youth academy. Although his time in the shirt was affected by injuries and inconsistency, Fati showed glimpses of brilliance. His move away from the club has now left the iconic shirt vacant, paving the way for the next heir.

Could Lamine Yamal Be the Next No. 10?

All signs point to Lamine Yamal as the next player to inherit the legendary number 10 jersey. At just 17 years old, he’s already a European champion with Spain, a Golden Boy award winner, and a standout for Barcelona in La Liga. His composure, creativity, and confidence are far beyond his age. The club is reportedly planning to officially assign him the number once he turns 18. If he continues on this trajectory, Yamal could become not just the next number 10, but one of the greatest to ever wear it.

The number 10 jersey at Barcelona is more than tradition—it’s a torch passed down through generations of football excellence. From Messi to Ronaldinho, Rivaldo to Maradona, the players who wore it left lasting legacies. As the torch passes once again, Lamine Yamal stands ready to carry that weight. With the world watching, the next chapter in the number 10 story is just beginning—and it might be the most exciting yet.