Lamine Yamal, the rising star of Barcelona and the Spanish national team, has already made a significant mark on the football world at just 17 years old. As the youngest player in history to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or, Yamal is embracing his newfound status with a mix of gratitude and ambition.
Lamine Yamal: "It's incredible to be on the cover of France Football, the magazine that awards the Ballon d'Or. It feels surreal, but I am grateful and excited for what is to come." pic.twitter.com/UzrVFy5uoS
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) September 5, 2024
“It’s incredible to be on the cover of France Football, the magazine that awards the Ballon d’Or” the youngster said. “It feels surreal, but I am grateful and excited for what is to come.” His achievements on the pitch have not gone unnoticed, and his place among the 30 finalists for the prestigious Ballon d’Or underscores his rapid rise in the sport.
Yamal is also a top contender for the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best young player under 21. If he were to win, he would follow in the footsteps of fellow Barcelona stars Pedri and Gavi, who have both claimed the award across the last 3 years. “Being among the 30 finalists for the Ballon d’Or and a top candidate for the Kopa Trophy at 17 is a dream” Yamal remarked. “I’m the youngest in history to achieve this, and it motivates me even more.”
Beyond individual accolades, Yamal is focused on his development and the impact he can make at both club and international levels. “I’m thrilled to be breaking records with Barcelona and the Spanish national team” he added. “Winning awards like the Golden Boy and the Kopa Trophy would be an honour, but I focus on improving every day.”
As Yamal continues to make headlines and break records, his professional journey is just beginning. With his talent and drive, Barcelona’s prodigy is poised to become one of the defining players of his generation.