Ballon d’Or: I thought I would win it – Yamal

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File: Barcelona’s Spanish forward Lamine Yamal. Photo by MANAURE QUINTERO / AFP.

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Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal has admitted that he believed he would win the 2025 Ballon d’Or before eventually finishing behind Ousmane Dembélé.

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The 18-year-old, who enjoyed a stellar campaign with Barcelona and Spain, opened up about his feelings regarding the prestigious individual award during a recent interview.

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Reflecting on the ceremony, Yamal said: “Honestly, if I’m being sincere, I thought I was going to win it that day because of some things that happened.”

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Despite the disappointment, the Spanish international insisted that missing out on the award ultimately benefited him.

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“But it was actually good that Dembélé won it. It helped me grow,” Yamal said.

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Yamal also praised Dembélé, highlighting the positive influence the French forward has had on his career and personal development.

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The Barcelona star finished runner-up in the 2025 Ballon d’Or voting, becoming one of the youngest players ever to reach the final podium places. Dembélé ultimately claimed the award after an outstanding season for club and country.

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Yamal, however, remains confident that his opportunity will come. The winger is expected to be among the leading contenders for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, especially if he can help Spain enjoy a successful campaign at the World Cup.

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