Marcus Rashford’s Controversial Prediction! Lamine Yamal Could Surpass Cristiano Ronaldo
Marcus Rashford spoke about Lamine Yamal’s talent and made a statement involving Cristiano Ronaldo. His prediction has already sparked debate.
Marcus Rashford surprised many with his comments about Lamine Yamal, whom he considers one of the most talented footballers he has ever shared a dressing room with. The English forward played alongside the Spaniard during his time at Barcelona, where he had the opportunity to witness his development and performances firsthand.
According to comments reported by Mundo Deportivo, the forward discussed the young star during a Q&A session with Manchester United supporters at Old Trafford. His remarks made it clear how highly he rates Yamal, but they also included a prediction directly involving Cristiano Ronaldo.
Rashford Believes Yamal Could Surpass Cristiano Ronaldo
The Englishman did not hesitate to predict that Lamine Yamal could win as many as seven Ballon d’Or awards during his career. "I believe a lot in this boy's talent. If he ends up winning seven Ballon d'Ors, it won't surprise me," Rashford said, according to comments published by Mundo Deportivo.
That figure is remarkable, considering that Cristiano Ronaldo has won five Ballon d'Or awards, while Lionel Messi has eight. If Rashford's prediction comes true, Yamal would surpass the Portuguese star and move within one award of the Argentine's record. Rashford also pointed out that the Spanish winger finished eighth, second, and third in the 2024, 2025, and 2026 editions, respectively.
Rashford Compares Yamal’s Talent to Lionel Messi’s
Rashford's admiration also extended to Lionel Messi. The forward revealed that, before leaving Barcelona, he told Yamal that he had played alongside many talented footballers, but the young Spaniard stood above all of them.
"He is the closest anyone can get to Messi's level," the Englishman explained. He also admitted that he had never seen a player of that age with so much talent. Nevertheless, he made it clear that he considers the Argentine a unique footballer whose genius will be extremely difficult to replicate.
The Numbers Behind Rashford’s Confidence in Lamine Yamal
At just 19 years old, Lamine Yamal is already among the leading contenders in Ballon d'Or voting. He finished eighth in 2024, second in 2025 behind Ousmane Dembélé, and third in 2026 behind Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé. He has also won the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year.
Rashford knows CR7's talent from their time together at Manchester United and has now had the opportunity to share the pitch with Yamal. His prediction puts the Spaniard in a conversation usually reserved for the game's greatest legends, although only time will tell how far he can go.
