At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has dazzled the world not only with his stunning breakout in the FC Barcelona first team, but also with his maturity off the pitch. In a recent interview, the young forward revealed a little-known detail about his pre-match preparation: a homemade dish that has been key to his physical development and performance.

Lamine Yamal's diet secret revealed: the must-have dish on his menu

For Lamine, chicken with rice and peanut sauce isn’t just a traditional dish from Equatorial Guinea, his mother’s homeland — it’s a pre-game ritual he's followed since childhood. “My mom always made it for me before I played. It’s a dish that gives me strength,” he shared.

More than just a family tradition, this meal is packed with powerful nutritional value. The rice provides long-lasting energy thanks to its complex carbohydrates, while the peanut-based sauce — the star of the dish — offers healthy fats, plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. Together, these nutrients support muscle development, post-match recovery, and endurance.

Nutritionists like Jaume Giménez and May Morón agree that this dish is perfect for a high-level athlete like Yamal. They also highlight the benefits of natural peanut butter as an energy boost before or after workouts — as long as it’s free from added sugars or unnecessary additives.

A No. 10 with a legendary taste

Beyond his diet, the Lamine phenomenon reached a new level after it was confirmed he would inherit the iconic No. 10 jersey at Barcelona, once worn by legends like Leo Messi, Ronaldinho, and Maradona. The excitement was so great that, following the announcement, club stores were packed with fans eager to get their hands on the new shirt with the academy star’s name on the back.

During the contract renewal ceremony, which extends until 2031, Lamine expressed his ambition: “Messi had his path, and I want to make mine.” With 25 goals and 34 assists last season, all signs point to him being on the right track.

Surrounded by murals in his neighborhood, sold-out jerseys, and praise from all over the world, the young striker remains grounded — holding on to his roots and routines. Because sometimes, behind every rising star, there’s also a plate of chicken with rice… and a mother’s love