“I think I have the ability to do it”, says Yamal
Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has said he would have only himself to blame if he never wins the Ballon d’Or.
The 18-year-old is among the frontrunners for this year’s prize after playing a central role in Barcelona’s domestic treble last season, registering 18 goals and 25 assists across all competitions.
Voting has closed and the winner of the award will be announced on 22 September in Paris, with Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele currently considered the favourite following his role in the French club’s treble.
Yamal admitted that he wants to win many team honours with Barcelona, but that he also has individual targets.
“I told my friends I don’t dream of winning one Ballon d’Or, I dream of winning many,” said Yamal. “I think I have the ability to do it, and if I don’t, it will be because I haven’t done things right or because I didn’t want to.”
Despite turning 18 only in July, Yamal has already made more than 100 senior appearances for Barcelona. He has also carried his good form into the new campaign, with two goals and two assists in the Catalan club’s first three league games.
His performances have established him as the standout figure of Barcelona’s emerging generation under Hansi Flick and a leading name in the Spanish national side heading into next summer’s World Cup.
“I just want to keep winning,” said Barcelona’s No 10. “I want to win with my club and with the national team.”
