Bayern Munich’s Missed Opportunity for Lamine Yamal

A change in representation led to Bayern Munich losing out on a potential bargain for Barcelona’s young talent, Lamine Yamal.

The Initial Approach

According to reports from BILD, in 2022, Bayern’s former sporting director, Hasan Salihamidzic, held discussions with Yamal’s representative, Iván de la Peña, in an effort to arrange a transfer.

During their conversation, Salihamidzic reached an understanding regarding a deal that would see Yamal join Bayern for a mere €5 million, with arrangements in place for the contract to extend until 2023. At the time, Yamal was still classified under junior contracts, meaning Bayern would not have to pay a substantial fee, but only a compensation sum to bring the young player from Barcelona and Spain.

Change of Agents and Resulting Decisions

However, prior to the conclusion of the transfer, Yamal opted to change his representation, signing with the well-known agent Jorge Mendes.

Mendes, uncertain about proceeding with the deal that was set up by the previous agent, chose to terminate the agreement. Subsequently, Yamal was presented with the opportunity to make his debut for FC Barcelona’s senior team, which ultimately led him to decide in favor of continuing his career with the Blaugrana.