Lamine Yamal explains why goals alone should not decide the Ballon d’Or

Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has argued that the Ballon d’Or should not be decided solely by goals, insisting the award should recognise players who make supporters dream. The 19-year-old, who finished second to Ousmane Dembele last year, is again among the leading contenders for this year’s prize alongside Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe.

Speaking to L’Equipe, as reported by ESPN, Yamal said the award should go to a player who offers something different and makes fans excited to watch football. The teenager pointed to his style of play as his strongest argument, while also highlighting his World Cup triumph with Spain and multiple trophies with Barcelona. Yamal admitted he dreams of winning the award but said becoming better than other players is not his motivation.