The dream of Lamine Yamal is beginning to take shape beyond the pitch. At just 18 years old, the Barcelona and Spain winger has already become one of the brightest young stars in world football. Speaking to RTVE during Spain’s international camp, he admitted that his ambitions are sky-high: winning the Champions League with Barça and, one day, lifting the Ballon d’Or.

Yamal’s Ambition: Champions League and Ballon d’Or

Yamal, who is among the 30 nominees for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, didn’t hold back:

“Collectively, winning the Champions League with Barça would be incredible, and individually every player wants to win the Ballon d’Or — anyone who says otherwise is lying. Both things are a dream.”

The youngster acknowledged that being on the shortlist at just 18 is “something to value” and revealed who his personal favorites have always been:

“Who would I give it to? To Messi and Neymar. They’re the players I enjoyed the most. I think Ney could have won one in his best years.”

The Ballon d’Or 2025 ceremony will take place on September 22 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, with other Barcelona players such as Pedri, Lewandowski, and Raphinha also nominated.

Response to Flick’s Criticism and Vallecas Draw

After the 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano, Barça boss Hansi Flick warned that “egos kill success.” Yamal offered his own perspective:

“After a draw you’re upset, at Barça you always have to win. But I don’t think it was about egos, it just wasn’t our game. We didn’t start with the same intensity as last season and lacked concentration at the end.”

He stressed that the squad remains “hungry” and that consistency will be the key:

“LaLiga is very long, we have to be regular.”

Yamal on His Role at Barcelona

The teenager also explained why he took the iconic No.10 shirt after Ansu Fati’s departure and how he handles the responsibility of taking penalties and free kicks:

“I don’t feel pressure, I just have to make my own path. If the team gives me the green light, I’ll take responsibility.”

He admitted one area he needs to improve:

“Assists come naturally to me, but I haven’t scored that many goals. That’s something I have to demand of myself, always without forgetting to help the team.”