The race for the Ballon d'Or is heating up, and Barcelona captain Raphinha has made his choice clear: Lamine Yamal deserves to win football's most prestigious individual award.
With the September 28 voting deadline approaching for 100 global journalists, Raphinha has thrown his full support behind his teenage teammate, pointing to Yamal's outstanding numbers, trophy haul and influence for both club and country.
Key Points for Yamal's Ballon d'Or Claim
- Raphinha's Backing: The Barcelona captain unequivocally supports Lamine Yamal for the Ballon d'Or.
- Outstanding Numbers: Raphinha highlighted Yamal's exceptional individual statistics and consistent attacking output.
- Major Honours: Yamal played a crucial role in Barcelona winning two titles and Spain securing a World Cup.
- Natural Magic: Raphinha also pointed to Yamal's unique ability, charisma and influence on the pitch.
Raphinha's Verdict: Yamal "Has Everything"
When asked whether the La Masia graduate should win the coveted Ballon d'Or, Raphinha's response was immediate and emphatic: "without a doubt, yes." Speaking in an interview, the 27-year-old Brazilian winger argued that Yamal possesses the qualities required to compete for football's biggest individual honour.
"Winning the Ballon d'Or is about individual statistics, team honors, and the magic he has on the pitch. Charisma and everything like this. For me, these are the most important points to win the award. And I think Lamine has them all," Raphinha explained.
Why Raphinha Believes Yamal Deserves the Award
Raphinha's argument for Yamal goes beyond the teenager's potential. He pointed to the sustained level of performance that has established the young winger as an important figure for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
"Lamine has spectacular numbers, not only last season but other seasons as well. And this season has also started spectacularly," the Barcelona captain said. "From three titles last season, he has won two with Barcelona and the World Cup with his national team."
For Raphinha, Yamal's importance is reflected not only in his statistics but also in his influence on the pitch. He described the teenager as "one of the most important players for Barcelona and one of the most important players for the Spanish national team." His conclusion was equally clear: "For me, Lamine has to take the prize no matter what."
Raphinha Insists Yamal's Case Goes Beyond Barcelona
Raphinha also dismissed the idea that his support for Yamal is simply a result of being his Barcelona teammate. The Brazilian insisted that he would still consider Yamal deserving of the award even if they were not playing for the same club.
"No matter what, he should win. Others will defend their player, but for me it's easily him. Even if I wasn't his teammate, I would say that he deserves it," Raphinha declared.
His argument centres on Yamal's impact at the highest level, with the teenager emerging as a key figure for both Barcelona and Spain.
Ballon d'Or Voting Deadline Draws Near
The Ballon d'Or race is now entering its final stage, with the global panel of journalists having until September 28 to cast their votes. Raphinha's strong public backing adds to the discussion surrounding Yamal's candidacy, with the Barcelona youngster's performances, statistics and honours forming the basis of his teammate's argument.
The Ballon d'Or ceremony is scheduled to take place on October 26 in London, where football fans will discover who takes home the prestigious individual prize.
