Young Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal continues to make headlines both on and off the pitch. At just 18 years old, he is already regarded as one of the brightest prospects in world football, though that hasn’t kept him from drawing attention for his words away from the game. Speaking candidly, the Spanish international delivered a statement that caught many off guard: if it were up to him, he’d award the Ballon d’Or to Neymar.

An unexpected nod to Neymar and Messi

Yamal didn’t hesitate when asked who he would give the most prestigious award in football to. “Neymar and Messi. I’d give one to Ney. I think he deserves it, for the period he had at Barça and at Paris. I would’ve liked him to win one. And obviously, Messi, because he’s the best in history,” he said.

His praise for the Brazilian wasn’t framed as just a personal wish but as a conviction that Neymar’s career warranted such recognition. At the same time, he once again showed admiration for Lionel Messi, whom he has often called his greatest idol.

Beyond the compliments, Lamine Yamal also acknowledged his own ambitions: “Everyone wants to win the Ballon d’Or. Whoever says they don’t is lying. To already be on the list at 18 is something I really value, and hopefully one day it will happen.”

Backed by Luis de la Fuente and focused on Spain

Yamal also spoke about his current role with the Spanish national team, where he has quickly become a key figure under head coach Luis de la Fuente. The manager has publicly defended him on several occasions, something Yamal greatly appreciates: “He’s been one of the people who has defended me the most. I’ll always be grateful.”

The young forward insists outside criticism doesn’t affect him and that he only listens to his close circle. “What brought me here is my mentality, I don’t let myself get influenced,” he explained. With that mindset, he is preparing to continue being a central figure for Spain on the road to the 2026 World Cup, where he hopes to challenge for the title.

Koundé weighs in on the Ballon d’Or debate

Meanwhile, his Barcelona teammate Jules Koundé also gave his thoughts on the subject. The defender took a more diplomatic approach, noting that both Yamal and Ousmane Dembélé had outstanding seasons: “There are arguments for both. May the best man win.”

The winner of the Ballon d’Or will be announced on September 22 in Paris, with Yamal, Neymar, Messi, and other big names among the 30 finalists. Regardless of the outcome, the young Barça star has already secured his place among football’s elite — and he isn’t afraid to voice his opinion, even on a subject as controversial as individual awards.