Teenage Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal appears to be entering a fresh phase in his career, both on and off the pitch. Already one of the most talked-about players in world football, recent developments suggest he is now concentrating more on letting his performances speak for themselves.
According to The Touchline, Yamal feels he has returned to his best level after making significant lifestyle adjustments. He has reportedly distanced himself from social media, scaled back public appearances and curtailed displays of his private life in order to limit distractions and focus fully on football.
The winger says he has matured considerably over recent months, a change he attributes to close guidance from Barcelona and his agent, Jorge Mendes. Their influence has helped him understand the importance of balance, discipline and focus at the highest level.
Earlier in the season Yamal’s private life drew plenty of attention. His social media activity and public image often became talking points, putting him under intense scrutiny. At that time he handled pressure with confidence, remained natural in his behaviour and self-belief, and did not hesitate to use social platforms to respond to rivals or build hype ahead of big games.
In recent weeks, however, he has taken a different path: reducing media exposure, cutting back on social activity and limiting commercial commitments. For example, he removed his profile photo and most posts on Instagram. The emphasis now is on doing what is necessary with professionalism, while staying out of unnecessary headlines.
This new approach is visible on the pitch as well — celebrations are more restrained and his interactions with opponents and referees are calmer. Understandably, his priority is clear: to lead Hansi Flick’s Barcelona and contribute to the Spanish national team without distractions.
The piece was published on 05/02/2026, about 5 hours ago, and is credited to Swapnil Bhopakar.