2026 Ballon d’Or: Hansi Flick backs ‘exceptional’ Yamal to win award

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has backed Lamine Yamal to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Flick was speaking after Yamal scored twice in Barcelona’s impressive 5-1 Champions League victory over Feyenoord on Wednesday.

“Lamine is my player,” Flick said, making it clear that he strongly supports the Barcelona winger’s chances of winning the prestigious award.

“He’s a Barcelona player and I also think he would deserve that too, to win the Ballon d’Or this year.”

Flick also praised Yamal’s performances and highlighted the qualities that make the teenager one of the leading candidates for the award.

“He’s an exceptional player. You can see that in every match. He’s special.”

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Yamal, who helped Barcelona win the Copa del Rey and LaLiga last season, is among the 30 nominees for this year’s Ballon d’Or and could become the youngest-ever winner of the award.