Lamine Yamal is rapidly emerging as a leading contender for the Ballon d’Or, with fans and pundits alike tipping him to go head-to-head with former Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembélé in what promises to be a tightly contested race, especially following Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League triumph.
Thursday’s fixture brought up an intriguing battle between the forwards, with the 17-year-old responding coolly when asked about going head-to-head with a fellow Ballon d’Or contender. “If they want to decide the Ballon d’Or on Thursday, so be it.” That statement captured the swagger of a player who understands his value, confidence rooted not in arrogance, but in world-class performances.
"“If they want to decide the Ballon d’Or on Thursday, so be it.” "Lamine Yamal
Fans call for Lamine Yamal to win Ballon d’Or after great performance
Yamal backed up his words in style, scoring twice, one from the penalty spot, and MVP award in a thrilling 5-4 victory. It was a performance that not only stole the headlines but also reinforced his growing reputation as one of the game’s most electrifying talents. On a night billed as a test of potential Ballon d’Or winners, Yamal may have just taken a decisive step toward claiming the crown.
He has the season stats to also match the contenders, which include teammate Raphina and Liverpool's Mohamed Salah. Yamal’s 2024/25 season was nothing short of remarkable. He racked up 18 goals and 25 assists across 55 appearances, playing a pivotal role in Barcelona’s domestic treble and their journey to the Champions League semi-finals.
Now, with the Nations League in sight, he aims to become the youngest winner of the competition, and perhaps, football’s most prestigious individual award.
And the fans certainly agree with the Barcelona fans and the neutrals flooding to social media to present it to him already. Social media has been flooded with praise and admiration for the rising star, with countless posts declaring him “the rightful winner already” and “just give him the award.”
One user, @NealGardner_, summed it up perfectly: "“If the Ballon d’Or is about awarding the best player in the world, there’s only one rightful winner. And his name is Lamine Yamal.”
Phrases like “kid genius” and “star of the show” were widely used at the final whistle, as he once again showcased the consistency and world-class quality that have become his trademark.Bastian Schweinsteiger echoed the growing sentiment, stating, “For the Ballon d’Or, Lamine Yamal should rank higher than Dembélé.”
For Dembélé, he brings with him the prestige of a Champions League title and a season to be proud of, having scored 33 goals in 45 appearances. His explosive pace, creativity, and clinical finishing have made him a standout performer in Paris Saint-Germain’s historic campaign.
Win or lose, Culers will take immense pride in the youngster they proudly call “one of our own.” And regardless of the outcome, Barcelona will stand tall at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in September—ready to show grace in both triumph and defeat.