Lamine Yamal: Mbappé and I are the best players in the world

Barcelona and Spain national team star Lamine Yamal believes that he and French Real Madrid international striker Kylian Mbappé are the two best players in the world, asserting that he deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or after a trophy-laden season with the Catalan club and La Roja.

The 19-year-old winger said in an interview with Movistar Plus, excerpts of which were published on Sunday: “Who would I give the Ballon d’Or to? To the best player in the world. And who will give it to? That’s a long story. I honestly believe I deserve it this year given the titles I’ve won (the La Liga and the World Cup). For me, Mbappé and I are the best players in the world. It’s very clear, and anyone who watches the games knows that.”

Yamal played a key role in Barcelona retaining the La Liga title, before being crowned world champion with Spain this summer, bolstering his chances of winning the most prestigious individual award in football.

Yamal spoke more cautiously during a press conference last Tuesday, saying he believed he had a chance to win the award after an “exceptional” season, but that he would not seek to pander to voters.

Meanwhile, Mbappé has also strengthened his case for the award in recent days. The France captain finished the season as top scorer in La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and the World Cup, despite Real Madrid failing to win any major trophy.