Lamine Yamal’s brilliant display against France during the Nations League semi-finals on Thursday has only solidified his claim for the Ballon d’Or, according to Spain manager Luis de la Fuente.
The 17-year-old Barcelona prodigy propelled Spain to an electrifying 5-4 victory over France, netting two goals that secured their place in the Nations League final for the third consecutive time, where they will clash with their Iberian rivals, Portugal.
The race to claim the illustrious golden ball trophy in September is largely perceived as a contest between Yamal and French forward Ousmane Dembele, with both players having significant impacts for their clubs and national teams this season.
“Yamal has made an impression tonight and demonstrated that he deserves the Ballon d’Or,” De la Fuente told RTVE.
“He is the finest player in the world, and in my view, he absolutely deserves to win the Ballon d’Or.”
Dembele, now 28 and a former Barcelona star, can proudly lay claim to titles including the Champions League, Ligue 1, French Cup, and French Super Cup this season, while Yamal has already secured the LaLiga, Spanish Cup, and Spanish Super Cup.
“I always tell my mum that I strive to put in my best effort,” Yamal remarked.
“That is what drives me and gets me out of bed every morning. It’s the reason I play football. I believe in letting my performance on the pitch do the talking.
“Dembele is an exceptional player, as we witnessed in the Champions League, but I’m pleased that we are the ones advancing to the final.
The nominees for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, which encompasses the period from August 1st to July 31st, are set to be revealed at the beginning of August, with the awards ceremony scheduled for September 22nd.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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