Agent Jorge Mendes saved Barcelona from losing Lamine Yamal | OneFootball

Football is a business that hinges on sliding doors moments, and the smallest details can alter the history of the game. Barcelona now have their new number 10, and a successor to Lionel Messi seemingly in Lamine Yamal, just a few years after the Argentina star, but they have agent Jorge Mendes to thank for that.

Mendes has a close relationship with Barcelona President Joan Laporta, while Director of Football Deco initially learnt his trade as an agent under Mendes. His links to the club have often been the subject of criticism in Spain, with Mendes crucial in the unsuccessful loan moves for Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo of late.

Mendes halted Lamine Yamal move to Bayern Munich

Were it not for the Portuguese super-agent though, Lamine Yamal may not be wearing the Blaugrana. As per BILD (via Diario AS), in 2022 Bayern Sporting Director Hasan Salihamidzic traveled to Barcelona to attempt to sign both Gavi and Lamine Yamal. Bayern convinced Lamine Yamal and his family to make the move in exchange for €5m.

Image via Relevo

However, with Lamine Yamal not yet 16, they could not complete the deal for another year. During that time, Lamine Yamal took on Mendes as an agent, at which point the deal ended up collapsing when thereafter Lamine Yamal changed his mind about leaving the club.

One Barcelona starlet did leave for Bayern

In 2022, one Barcelona starlet did leave the club. Left-back Adam Aznou, who is a close friend of Lamine Yamal having spent time together at La Masia, did make the switch to Bayern. He signed on a free deal as a 16-year-old, at the time as one of the more promising defenders in the Barcelona academy.

Aznou spent the second half of last season on loan at Real Valladolid back in Spain, and was monitored by Barcelona again. This summer was sold to Everton for €9m.