FC Barcelona already has the future of one of their great prospects secured: Lamine Yamal. The young footballer signed the official activation of his contract this Wednesday, extending it until 2031, coinciding with his recent coming of age.
However, what was supposed to be an institutional formality ended up becoming a family moment full of emotion. In this second staging of the renewal, held at Camp Nou offices, there was a detail that made the difference: the presence of his grandmother.
There is no doubt that Fátima is a key person in Lamine Yamal's life. Her absence in the first official photo was noticeable; moreover, for the player, it was an incomplete moment. This time she was by his side, and that gave the event special meaning.
Lamine Yamal's grandmother, a key pillar after his parents' divorce
Fátima is not just Lamine's grandmother. She is the true emotional and family support for the one who now shines as a Barça star. Her story is that of a woman who didn't let difficulties defeat her.
More than three decades ago, she left her life in Morocco behind and settled in Mataró seeking opportunities. She did it alone, with courage, and worked hard to bring her five children, one by one, to their new home.
With effort and perseverance, she raised a family in a modest environment, but one full of values. When Lamine's environment took a complicated turn—after his parents separated when he was just a child—it was Fátima who took on the role of a reference figure.
She became his daily support, giving him the stability he needed at home while he began to stand out in soccer. That closeness was key for the player to grow up without losing his way, despite the speed with which he has risen to stardom.
The tender relationship between Lamine Yamal and his grandmother
Today, while Lamine Yamal's name is heard around the world, his grandmother still lives in the same neighborhood as always. She hasn't changed her routine, nor has she let herself be seduced by luxury. She prefers to stay close to her roots, surrounded by her loved ones and enjoying her grandson's soccer.
Behind the talent and fame, there are stories that don't appear in match highlights. Fátima's is one of them. Without a doubt, one of the most important in Lamine's career.