Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal says he hopes more African players will be included among the nominees for the Ballon d'Or.
“I hope there will be more and more Africans among the Ballon d'Or nominees,” the 19-year-old said when asked about the prospects of African footballers competing for the award.
Yamal was born in Spain and represents the Spanish national team, but has African heritage. His father is Moroccan, while his mother was born in Equatorial Guinea.
The Barcelona forward is regarded as one of the leading candidates for this year’s prize. The winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on 26 October.