Barcelona teenage winger Lamine Yamal has boldly claimed that he and Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé are the world’s two best players.
The 19-year-old believes his outstanding season and major trophy wins make him deserving of the 2026 Ballon d’Or.
Speaking in an interview broadcast by Movistar Plus, Yamal pointed to Barcelona’s La Liga success and Spain’s FIFA World Cup triumph.
“For me, Mbappé and I are the two best players,” Yamal said, insisting that his achievements give him the edge this year.
Mbappé, however, remains a major contender despite Real Madrid ending the season without a major trophy.
The France captain finished as the top scorer in La Liga, the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup.
Reigning Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé is also in contention after helping Paris Saint-Germain retain the Champions League.
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane is another strong candidate after winning the domestic double in Germany and claiming the European Golden Shoe.
The 2026 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on Monday, October 26, 2026.
