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Fakayejo Paul
Barcelona and Spain sensation Lamine Yamal Backs Himself for 2026 Ballon d’Or Gloryamine Yamal has delivered a bold claim ahead of the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony, stating that while he and Kylian Mbappé stand clear as the two best players on the planet, he deserves to lift the trophy.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Movistar Plus set to air on El Universo de Valdano, the 19-year-old winger expressed complete confidence in his achievements over the past year.
Key Context & Quotes
- The Two Best:“For me, Kylian Mbappé and I are the two best players in the world, and anyone who watches the matches knows that,” Yamal declared.
- Deserving Winner:“I honestly believe there are perhaps only two players who are the best in the world, but I deserve it this year because of what I’ve won,” he added.
- Silverware vs. Individual Stats:Yamal’s case rests on a double-winning campaign: helping FC Barcelona retain the La Liga title and guiding Spain to victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Mbappé’s Counter:Mbappé—who finished as top scorer in La Liga, the Champions League, and the World Cup—argued earlier in the week that the award should prioritize individual impact over trophies.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be officially crowned at the ceremony in London on October 26.