Spain’s national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, has no doubts: Lamine Yamal will one day win the Ballon d’Or—and not just once. While urging caution about this season’s edition of the award, the coach praised the young Barcelona forward’s talent and maturity, emphasizing that his potential is still far from fully realized. “I don’t know when he’ll win it, but he will. And he’ll win it more than once. He’s already performing at a very high level and winning titles. It’s just a matter of time,” said De la Fuente from the Spanish Football Federation's headquarters.

The coach of La Roja stressed the importance of humility despite the player’s meteoric rise. “The key isn’t to obsess over awards but to work every day and keep improving. If he does that, the accolades will follow,” he added. De la Fuente also pointed out that, although only 17, Yamal demonstrates a rare maturity and a remarkable ability to perform under pressure.

Lamine Yamal and His Rise: From La Masia to a Historic Renewal

Lamine Yamal Nasraoui Ebana, born in Esplugues de Llobregat in 2007, has emerged as one of global football’s brightest talents. This week, FC Barcelona officially announced the extension of his contract until June 2031, securing their crown jewel for six more years. The winger, who turns 18 on July 13, played a crucial role this season in the domestic treble achieved under Hansi Flick: La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España.

The new contract was signed at the Spotify Camp Nou offices in the presence of club president Joan Laporta, vice president Rafa Yuste, and sporting director Deco. The player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, was key in the negotiations and ensured that Yamal’s desire to remain with the club he joined at age seven from CF La Torreta was honored.

Since debuting for the first team on April 29, 2023, at just 15 years old, Yamal has broken multiple records. In the 2023-24 season, he played 50 matches, scored 7 goals, and provided 7 assists. At 16, he made his debut with Spain’s senior team and shone in the Euro Cup, which La Roja won.

Under Flick, he has taken another leap forward: 55 appearances (51 as a starter), 18 goals, and 21 assists, making him the third-best assist provider across Europe’s top leagues, according to BeSoccer Pro. His performances in high-stakes matches—whether Champions League semifinals or Clásicos against Real Madrid—have firmly placed his name among the sport’s elite.

More than just numbers, Lamine Yamal stands out for his mentality and character. He’s no longer just La Masia’s promise—he’s a rising star destined for greatness. As De la Fuente aptly put it: “He looks like a player who will define an era.”