Lamine Yamal is among the very serious candidates for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Like Kylian Mbappé, the Spanish international is campaigning to win the prestigious individual award.
He does not hesitate to make certain statements that could have come out of the Frenchman’s mouth. “It’s not just this year that I’m at a level allowing me to win the Ballon d’Or, but for quite a while already. Everyone knows it”he confided during an interview given to Guardian.
According to the FC Barcelona star, his age could be a barrier preventing him from lifting the trophy on October 26 in London. On July 13, less than a week before being crowned world champion with La Roja, he celebrated his 19th birthday.
Lamine Yamal Ballon d’Or, watch out for Neymar syndrome
“People say, ‘Lamine will get it one day, so maybe someone else this time…’. I just have to win, win and win, and the time will come when there will be no doubt.”continues the native of Esplugues de Llobregat.
For comparison, Neymar seemed destined for the Ballon d’Or. And this, from a very young age. Upon arrival, the Brazilian never managed to land a single one. In his defense, the competition with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo was extremely tough in his era.
