Barcelona star João Cancelo has revealed his opinion that young teammate Lamine Yamal is the sole player deserving of winning this year’s Ballon d’Or.
The subject of the 2026 ‘Golden Ball’ has of course dominated the headlines across world football over the course of recent days. This comes after the 30-man shortlist to be named football’s standout performer for the last 12 months was officially unveiled.
The aforementioned Lamine featured front and centre, alongside a whole host of the game’s most high-profile names.
The 19-year-old is currently considered as being amongst the frontrunners for the accolade, after a year culminating in both a La Liga title, and the World Cup.
And as alluded to above, one individual of the opinion that Lamine should be considered the outright favourite to lift the Ballon d’Or at next month’s ceremony in Paris is João Cancelo.
Speaking during an appearance in front of the media on Thursday, Barca full-back Cancelo insisted:
“The only player who deserves to win the Ballon d’Or is Lamine Yamal. He’s won so many trophies at 19, World Cup, Euros, all trophies with Barça and his season was incredible… and he’s by far the best talent and best player in the world.
“For me there’s no other player who can win the Ballon d’Or. It has to be Lamine.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
