Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal says he will not “beg” for the Ballon d’Or, in an apparent response to Kylian Mbappe’s belief that this could be the year he wins football’s most prestigious individual prize.
Mbappe, the Real Madrid star, recently suggested he had a strong chance of collecting the award at next month’s ceremony and said the final decision would be made by journalists.
“I always think I'm the best (player in the world), but everyone has their own opinion.
"Maybe people think different ways. I don't think it's a discussion we need to have.
"Of course this year could be good for me to win the Ballon d'Or. But journalists vote.”
The France captain’s comments attracted criticism as he began publicly making the case for his candidacy. Mbappe’s best previous finish came in 2023, when he placed third behind Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi.
His latest push for recognition comes as he competes with a group of high-profile players, including Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembele and Yamal, for the award.
Yamal was asked about his own prospects this week and insisted that his performances should speak for themselves. The Barcelona teenager pointed to his work for both club and country, while leaving the final decision to those responsible for voting.
"It doesn't depend on me, it depends on you. The work with Barca and the national team has been incredible. I have options, I had a great year. But we'll see".
Yamal was then asked whether he needed to campaign for the prize in the same way as Mbappe. He rejected that suggestion and said he was satisfied with what he had achieved.
"I don't think I need to campaign (like Mbappe). Everyone can think whatever they want. I'm proud of what I've done and I can't ask for more. It's your job, I won't beg for anything".
Mbappe finished last season without a trophy and, according to the source article, has very little chance of winning this year’s Ballon d’Or. Yamal is also not currently the leading favourite, sitting behind Kane, Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the race for the award.
The Ballon d’Or ceremony is due to take place next month, with the winner set to be decided by journalists. Both Mbappe and Yamal remain among the prominent names being discussed, although Yamal’s comments underline his preference to let his performances for Barcelona and the national team determine his case rather than make a public appeal for votes.