Luis Figo chooses Lamine Yamal over Messi and Mbappe in Ballon d’Or challenge

Luis Figo has declared his support for Lamine Yamal in the Ballon d’Or race, selecting the young Barcelona player ahead of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Figo, a former Barcelona star and winner of the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2000, made his selection during a head-to-head challenge that saw him choose among several top footballers. The field included Messi, Mbappe, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, and Rodri.

Figo was prompted to make rapid decisions as he faced off against Messi and Ousmane Dembele, ultimately backing the Argentine maestro. Harry Kane was selected over Erling Haaland in another matchup. Yamal subsequently received Figo's backing against Rodri, while Mbappe was chosen ahead of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, leading to two compelling semi-final contests.

Messi advanced to the final by being placed above Kane, while the other semi-final proved more challenging for Figo, who had to decide between Mbappe and Yamal. Given the significance of both players' positions at Barcelona and on the international stage, Figo ultimately opted for the talented Barcelona star. In justifying his choice, Figo praised Yamal's potential, contrasting it with Messi's already impressive list of accolades.