Barcelona, Spain – As one of football’s most exciting young stars turned 18, all eyes were on Lamine Yamal’s lavish birthday celebration—and now, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has weighed in with a warm and supportive reaction.
Speaking to Spanish media following the event, Laporta said he “wished he had been there” to celebrate with the teenage sensation, while also brushing aside any public concern or criticism about the party’s extravagance or media attention.
“Lamine is a young man who has given everything to this club, and he deserved to celebrate this important milestone,” Laporta stated. “There’s absolutely nothing to criticise. It was a special day for him and his family. I wish I had been able to attend.”
The birthday party, which reportedly featured friends, family, teammates, and various entertainment elements, was held in Barcelona and marked Yamal’s official transition into adulthood. Photos and videos from the night circulated on social media, showing the teenager enjoying the moment in style.
While some critics online suggested the party might be too “flashy” for a player still early in his career, Laporta was quick to defend Yamal and place the event in context.
“Let’s not forget this is a player who, at just 16 and 17, showed maturity beyond his years—on the biggest stages,” Laporta said. “He’s earned every right to enjoy a night like this. We support him 100%.”
Lamine Yamal has already become a central figure in Xavi’s Barcelona squad and a symbol of La Masia’s continued excellence. After becoming the youngest player to debut for Barça’s first team and now a regular feature in La Liga and European competitions, Yamal’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable.
Now 18, he’s not only eligible for senior contracts but is also seen as one of the long-term pillars of the club’s future.
“He’s a role model for our academy players,” Laporta added. “Lamine represents the values of hard work, loyalty, and ambition. As he turns 18, we are more excited than ever about what’s to come.”
Yamal is expected to return to preseason training with Barcelona as the club gears up for a crucial campaign in both domestic and European competitions. With the contract protections that come with turning 18 now in place, the club is also set to secure his long-term future amid growing interest from Europe’s elite.
But for now, Laporta and Barça fans alike are focused on celebrating the moment.
“It’s a special birthday for a special player,” Laporta concluded. “Let him enjoy it.”
As Lamine Yamal steps into adulthood, Barcelona remains firmly behind him—not just as a footballer, but as a young man growing under the spotlight.
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