Blow for Lamine Yamal, his best friend says goodbye to Barça, nobody expected it

In just one year, Lamine Yamal has gone from being La Masia's jewel to Barça's great emblem. His performance has been so dazzling that he's already being mentioned in conversations about the Ballon d'Or. Every time he touches the ball, he brings quality, dribbling, and vision, three virtues that are very rare in today's soccer.

Barça knows they have a generational talent and must take care of him like gold dust. It's essential for Lamine Yamal to feel comfortable and protected in the Catalan capital. For this, his human and emotional environment is just as important as his sporting development on the field.

Lamine Yamal says goodbye to his great friend in the Barça locker room

The emotional stability of Lamine Yamal is key for him to keep shining at the highest level. In the locker room, his best friend has always been Héctor Fort, his inseparable companion since their time in the youth ranks. They both grew up together at La Masia, shared rooms during tournaments, and have a wonderful understanding both on and off the field.

This is why Barça's latest decision surely hasn't pleased Lamine Yamal at all. Héctor Fort, currently on loan at Elche, won't return to Barça at the end of the season. His definitive departure isn't official yet, but you only have to see how things are going for him at Martínez Valero to realize he won't return to Camp Nou.

Héctor Fort and Lamine Yamal go their separate ways

Héctor Fort left on loan to Elche in the summer with the intention of getting the minutes he wasn't going to have under Hansi Flick. His adaptation to the Elche squad has been more difficult than desired and he's only played 99 min. (91 min.) spread over three matches. In addition, several physical issues have prevented his continuity and slowed his initial progress.

Barça trusted this experience would help him grow, but now his future seems to be moving away from Camp Nou. Everything indicates the club isn't considering Héctor Fort's return and will look for another destination for him in the next transfer window. For Lamine Yamal, it's confirmation that his great friend won't share a locker room with him again.

Héctor Fort's departure is a blow to Lamine Yamal's closest circle. At such a young age, the youngster needs stability and a positive environment to help him keep the balance between pressure and success. Losing his best support could affect him emotionally, although his maturity inspires optimism.