Man City sent a proposal to Barcelona gem even before his first-team debut – report

As reported by Spanish publication MARCA, Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal received a proposal from Manchester City this year, but the 16-year-old decided to continue at Barcelona instead. 

The offer from the European champions was such that they asked him to join the team and immediately move to Girona on a season-long loan.

Yamal made history in his national team debut recently, becoming the youngest player at 16 years and 57 days to ever play for Spain. Above all, the young forward topped his historic appearance with a goal as well.

In the process, Yamal surpasses fellow club teammate Gavi, who debuted for the national team in 2021 in the UEFA Nations League semi-final against Italy.

When did Man City call?

If ever Yamal reflects on his early career, the year 2023 shall forever bear a unique and cherished significance. A mere 15 years old at the time, he made his debut for Barcelona in La Liga.

During these formative years, Yamal faced the poignant crossroads of choosing between the vibrant allure of Spain and the heartfelt beckoning of Morocco. 

Amidst this pivotal juncture, another remarkable opportunity came knocking — a proposal to join the ranks of Manchester City, a club renowned for its footballing prowess and global stature.

Interestingly enough, City’s interest in Yamal dates back to the time before he made his senior team debut. For what it is worth, the 16-year-old had been a whispered secret in the hallowed corridors of European football giants for quite some time. 

It was February when the Manchester City club, masterminded by Pep Guardiola himself, made a compelling proposition to the young talent, asking him to forsake Barcelona, embrace the blue of Manchester City, and embark on a footballing journey while on loan at Girona.

Yamal’s rejection

The decision to let him continue his journey at Montilivi, a club affiliated with City, wasn’t driven by doubts about his immediate potential.

Instead, it stemmed from the complex ramifications of Brexit, which had imposed restrictions on English clubs signing young talents from the European Union. 

However, it was Lamine Yamal’s choice to remain within the embrace of his Barcelona home that ultimately prevailed.

Having opted to continue, the 16-year-old has agreed a new three-year contract with Barça, with an official announcement of the deal expected to be made soon after the international break.