‘Few play like me!’ – Lamine Yamal makes bold Ballon d’Or claim as Barcelona star targets top award in London

Yamal’s claim to the game’s ultimate individual prize is backed up by staggering numbers on the pitch. The young prodigy enjoyed a sensational campaign last term, racking up 24 goals and 18 assists for Barcelona. He has seamlessly carried that explosive form into the current season, directly contributing to 14 goals – scoring eight and providing six assists – in just eight appearances across all competitions.

Yamal also addressed the growing scrutiny both he and Kylian Mbappe have faced for openly declaring their ambition to win the award. Unfazed by the backlash, the teenager stood firmly by his statements: ‘If Mbappe and I didn’t talk, people would wonder why we weren’t. We’re asked to be sincere, but when we are, we get criticized. I clearly said what I thought, and I don’t regret doing so.’