Lamine Yamal pledges future to Barcelona ahead of Albacete clash

The 18-year-old forward was one of Barcelona's key performers throughout the campaign and quickly became the focal point of their attack. His form earned widespread praise across Europe, including a second-place finish in the Ballon d'Or voting, underlining his rapid rise at the highest level of the game.

Yamal was recognised again on Monday night when he was awarded the Mundo Deportivo Trophy at the newspaper's 120th anniversary gala. Speaking after collecting the prize, the Spain international made his feelings about Barcelona clear.

"I hope I can stay here for my entire life, where I enjoy myself every day, at the best club and in the best city in the world," Yamal said.

His comments will be welcomed by Barcelona supporters, who have watched him develop into a decisive player despite his young age. Club officials have repeatedly pointed to Yamal as a cornerstone of their long-term project.

Yamal also turned his attention to Barcelona's immediate task, a Copa del Rey quarter-final tie against Albacete, stressing the importance of the competition.

"Tomorrow (Tuesday) is a very important day," he said. "We're going for the Copa semi-final, which is a title we have to win."

The winger goes into the match in confident form after scoring an outstanding goal against Elche in his most recent appearance. Barcelona will be looking to him once again to provide creativity and attacking threat as they aim to move a step closer to lifting the Copa del Rey this season.