Ballon d’Or shortlist: Dembélé, Mbappé, Kane, Messi, Yamal lead star-studded race

In preparation for Barcelona's Champions League match against Feyenoord, Lamine Yamal, a young Barcelona player, addressed the media alongside coach Hansi Flick. The teenager showcased a commendable press conference, tackling various subjects including Real Madrid's grievances over refereeing after their defeat to Real Betis. Yamal maintained his composure, delivering articulate responses.

Regarding the refereeing, Yamal asserted that if Real Madrid hasn't had a successful season in a while, their discontent should be directed towards their own team. He expressed satisfaction with the officials' performance during the match. When questioned about his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or, Yamal firmly stated, "I don’t think I need to campaign to win the Ballon d’Or. I’ve done a very good job this year, and I don’t have to beg you to vote for me to win it. I don’t think it depends on me, but on the journalists."

Yamal emphasized that his contributions to the team and Spain's national team have been exceptional, and if awarded the prestigious accolade, he would be grateful. Yamal also quipped about Ousmane Dembele’s preference for Kylian Mbappé over himself, humorously saying, "He’s friends with Kylian, right? (laughs) Honestly, I don’t mind.

It’s normal, I get along really well with Dembélé, and it’s normal that I have to include other people. There’s no need to show off the year I’ve had." Yamal’s approach has been lauded, as conversations about the Ballon d’Or are often tiresome and he rightly opts to let his performance speak for itself.