Published : 24 Sep 2026, 12:57 AM
Updated : 24 Sep 2026, 12:57 AM
Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has backed his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or, saying the award should recognise the player who gives fans the most joy, according to Yahoo Sports.
The Barcelona teenager is among the leading contenders for the prestigious award and told France Football that he associates the award with joyful, magical icons like Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho -- players who make fans tune in just to watch them play.
Following a standout year featuring silver with Barcelona and a World Cup triumph with Spain, Yamal believes his unique, entertaining style of play is his strongest case for the prize.
"The Ballon d'Or is the trophy that rewards the best player of the year, the exceptional player, the one you enjoy watching play, to the point of watching a match just for him," Yamal said.
"It has nothing to do with the number of goals he scores. When I think of the Ballon d'Or, I think of Messi or Ronaldinho... players who make you smile when you watch them play."
