Joao Cancelo Backs Lamine Yamal as Sole Deserving Ballon d’Or Candidate

Update: 10 September 2026, 8:43:58 PM

Barcelona star Joao Cancelo has made an emphatic claim regarding the upcoming Ballon d’Or, stating, “The only player who deserves to win the Ballon d’Or is Lamine Yamal.” Speaking to the media, Cancelo insisted the teenager is the best player in the world, arguing that his consistent impact for both club and country separates him from all other contenders.

Managerial Support and Historical Context

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has echoed this sentiment, describing Yamal as a special talent. Flick claimed no other player comes close to the teenager’s level, asserting that a Barcelona player deserves the award this year. Notably, Lionel Messi remains the last Barcelona player to secure the prestigious trophy.

Yamal’s Stance on Accolades

  • Lamine Yamal has boldly stated he will not campaign for the Ballon d’Or, noting, “Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal not interested in begging for Ballon d’Or.”
  • The forward maintains that his “talking is done on the pitch” and he has no interest in discussing the award through media channels.
  • Yamal’s rise continues; he finished eighth in 2024 and climbed to second in the race last year.
  • His recent success includes a pivotal role in Barcelona’s league title win and helping Spain secure the FIFA World Cup.

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