Bayern came very close

What seems unthinkable today was nearly a reality in 2022: Lamine Yamal, the jewel of La Masia, was close to joining Bayern Munich. Then sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic and scouting chief Marco Neppe held secret talks in Madrid with the youngster’s former agent, Iván de la Peña, to design a plan for his move to Germany.

The Bavarians’ strategy was clear: relocate Yamal’s family, wait until he turned 16, and sign him for around €5 million. Bayern believed they had an advantage before the rest of Europe realized the winger’s extraordinary talent. Although the trip initially focused on Gavi, Yamal quickly became their top priority.

Jorge Mendes steps in

When everything seemed lined up, Jorge Mendes entered the scene. The super-agent took over Lamine Yamal’s representation and immediately shut down the deal. His arrival convinced the player’s family that his best future was at Barcelona, who reacted by accelerating his promotion to the first team.

That decision proved crucial. At just 15 years and 9 months, Yamal debuted at Camp Nou, starting a meteoric rise as one of world football’s brightest prospects. By 2023, he had signed a contract with a staggering €1 billion release clause, effectively blocking any attempts from Europe’s elite clubs.

Today, at only 18 years old, Yamal is a starter for Barcelona, an international with the Spanish National Team, and a frontrunner for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. The Bundesliga path that once seemed possible was erased by Mendes’ decisive action, ensuring the teenager’s career remained tied to Catalonia.

The future of Barça’s new jewel

Ultimately, Jorge Mendes’ vision didn’t just stop a transfer; it guaranteed that the present and future of the Blaugrana project carry a clear name: Lamine Yamal.