Jorge Mendes Backs Lamine Yamal for Ballon d'Or

Portuguese agent Jorge Mendes has stated that Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is the rightful candidate for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, praising the exceptional season the player has had.

Mendez stated: "The Ballon d'Or is for a genius player, and Lamine Yamal is the only one capable of winning it this year. He is a genius, and no player can be compared to him after this season."

He added: "It is very fair to consider him a candidate for the Ballon d'Or 2026, after winning the World Cup and La Liga and delivering another fantastic season with Barcelona. He deserves it."

Mendes' comments come as Yamal's chances in the award race continue to rise, following his stellar performances with Barcelona and the Spanish national team, solidifying his status as one of the brightest stars in global football.

Yamal finished second in the 2025 Ballon d'Or race, behind Ousmane Dembélé.