Cruyff was sports director at Barca when former coach Xavi gave Yamal his debut as a 16 year-old.
"There was a risk that Lamine would leave Barça. We postponed his debut until we felt we were covered (with a contract). He is exceptional," he told Sport.
"The club is already there to take care of him. I am no longer involved."
Cruyff also spoke about a possible return for Lionel Messi, 38, from Inter Miami.
"Just like my father ( Johan Cruyff ), Leo Messi is a star. They have the luxury of choosing when they want, that's the fate of the immortals, the truly special ones," he continued.
"One last dance? I don't know what his plans are, I can't answer that, but he is a very special player considering everything he has meant to us since he was little. What is clear is that the one who decides his fate and his future, when and how, is Leo: just like my father did."