The countdown to the 2025 Ballon d’Or is underway, and Lamine Yamal has stirred headlines with a bold statement. Just weeks before the ceremony at the Théatre du Chatelet in Paris, the FC Barcelona starlet left out teammates Pedri and Raphinha from his list of favorites, instead naming two legends: Lionel Messi and Neymar.

What Did Yamal Say About Messi and Neymar?

Speaking to RTVE during the international break, the 18-year-old winger didn’t hesitate to highlight his idols:

“My favorites? Always Neymar and Messi. I would give one to Ney, I think he deserves it. Ney, during that period at Barça or at Paris, should have won it without doubt. I would have loved for him to get one. And obviously Messi, because he is the best in history.”

With those words, Yamal openly sidelined his own Barcelona teammates who are also nominated, praising instead the legacy of two players he considers generational icons.

Does Lamine Yamal See Himself Winning the Ballon d’Or?

Despite his admiration for Messi and Neymar, Yamal was also clear about his personal ambitions:

“Do I see myself lifting the Ballon d’Or? Yes. We want to win the Champions League and the Ballon d’Or, both; they’re both dreams, especially the Champions League with Barça, that would be incredible. Obviously, the Ballon d’Or is special for every player. Everyone wants to win it, and whoever says otherwise is lying. Being there at 18 is something to value, and hopefully it happens.”

The young forward’s confidence reflects his rapid rise, as he prepares to attend his first Ballon d’Or ceremony as one of the standout names in Barcelona’s delegation.

What Do His Barcelona Teammates Think?

The comments sparked debate in the Blaugrana dressing room. When asked about Yamal’s candidacy —and that of Ousmane Dembélé— Jules Koundé opted for a diplomatic approach:

“There are arguments for both. May the best man win.”

In doing so, the French defender avoided any internal controversy, while recognizing the merit of his teammates.