The renewal of rising star Lamine Yamal’s contract with Barcelona has sparked controversy within the team’s dressing room due to the generous financial terms it includes—terms that several senior players view as disproportionate, particularly given the teenager’s age and limited top-level experience.
Although Yamal’s base salary is reportedly around €8 million net per year, that figure is expected to rise significantly in the coming seasons, depending on a range of performance-based variables and targets.
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According to leaked details, the incentives include benchmarks for goals and assists, along with both individual and team achievements. If these targets are met, Yamal’s total earnings could exceed €25 million per season—a figure some teammates see as excessive.
Notably displeased are Brazilian winger Raphinha, who recently extended his contract on more modest financial terms, and midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who is still in negotiations with club officials to extend his deal beyond 2026 amid ongoing pressure to accept a pay cut.
However, the strongest reaction reportedly came from veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, who believes the club’s internal hierarchy has been undermined. Despite being 36, the Polish forward still views himself as a key figure in the squad and remains the team’s top scorer this season with 42 goals across all competitions—this despite missing several weeks through injury.
What especially angered Lewandowski, according to reports, was a clause in Yamal’s new contract granting him penalty-taking priority starting next season. This term, allegedly approved by both president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, effectively removes Lewandowski from a role in which he has long excelled as one of the most consistent penalty takers in Europe.
This decision could risk creating further tension within the squad, particularly as new head coach Hansi Flick begins his tenure. He will now face the delicate task of reestablishing balance and harmony in the dressing room as he launches his new project at the club.
