Barca star Yamal says will not beg for Ballon d’Or
"I'm not thinking about what I deserve, everyone can think what they like," Yamal told reporters.
Lionel Messi, a 39-year-old eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, and 19-year-old Barcelona attacker Lamine Yamal have been included in the list of 30 nominees for the 2026 men's Ballon d'Or. The France Football announcement was made on Tuesday via their X account. Messi, who recently retired from Argentina's national team, received his 17th nomination playing for Inter Miami and Argentina.
He has won the award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2023. Yamal, on the other hand, earned his third nomination in the 2026 Ballon d'Or after a successful campaign that included winning the World Cup with Spain, a Spanish league title, and the Super Cup. He also had impressive goal and assist numbers during the season, showcasing his talent among the young players.
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Also reported by 5 other outlets
- Ballon d’Or 2026: Lamine Yamal makes history after nomination dailypost.ng
- Lamine Yamal refuses to campaign for Ballon d’Or dailytimes.com.pk
- FULL LIST: Messi, Yamal among 2026 Ballon d’Or nominees punchng.com
- Barca star Lamine Yamal says will not beg for Ballon d'Or iol.co.za
- Full List of 'Coach of the Year' Nominees at 2026 Ballon d'Or en.tempo.co
