The Ballon d’Or remains one of football’s most prestigious awards, and FC Barcelona players are used to winning it. For players of the Catalan club, it is a prize that they almost always have their eyes on. However, after Lionel Messi’s departure, Barcelona lacked the star power to challenge for it.
Now, things definitely seem to have changed in that regard. With many Barcelona players performing at a world-class level this season, it makes sense as to why Ballon d’Or conversations often involve a few Barça players at the very least.
Two Barcelona stars have a good case for the Ballon d’Or
The two most notable inclusions often involve Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. The duo has reached entirely new heights this season, and that has allowed Barcelona to win the domestic treble this season as well.
However, the latter in particular seems to be a favorite of sorts when it comes to the opinions of top players and even legends these days in terms of his quality. Zinedine Zidane was one such legend who could not help but commend Yamal’s sublime performance against Inter Milan with some big praise.
For those eager to follow the rise of talents like Yamal and gain insights into upcoming matches, freetips.com offers free tips and predictions for sports enthusiasts. Yamal’s blend of skill and maturity continues to spark conversations about his potential to dominate the sport.
Ruud Gullit backs Lamine Yamal for the award
Now, another legend has joined in as well, but his opinion directly claims that Lamine Yamal is the player who should be winning the Ballon d’Or this season.
As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, Dutch icon Ruud Gullit was asked about the Ballon d’Or ahead of the UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan, and he explained his choice:
“The hardest part is that the Ballon d’Or usually goes to someone in the Champions League final, but this time it might be different. What we’ve seen from Lamine Yamal is incredible—almost absurd. People might vote for him because they have a good eye and he’s a great person.”
The 1987 Ballon d’Or winner further explained his choice, stating that it was about more than what the Barcelona player is able to do on the pitch:
“It’s not just about winning or what you do on the pitch, it’s also how you carry yourself. Yamal has a little more than the others who’ll be on the field.”
With Yamal’s future now secured by Barcelona until 2031 with his latest contract renewal, the €180 million-rated youngster’s future is in safe hands. While no one can know for sure who ends up winning the Ballon d’Or, the 17-year-old Barcelona prodigy is certainly among the favorites.
