Today’s El Clasico is not only a showdown for pay dirt but a key moment for Barcelona’s 17-year-old star, Lamine Yamal, in his bold bid for the Ballon d’Or.
Barcelona may be ruled out of UEFA Champions League action after their loss, but Yamal’s scintillating attack against Inter Milan at San Siro—where he rattled posts and attacked defenders—kept him alive.
However, that loss hurt his chances. Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain is now considered the favorite after an incredible season.
Lamine Yamal, however, has two opportunities to turn the tide.
Firstly, it’s El Clásico, and if he shines against Real Madrid, it could lift him into the reckoning once again. He has a history of ruining Los Blancos, as reported by Diario Sport.
He scored an incredible goal in the 4-0 rout at Bernabeu.
Scored in the Spanish Super Cup final and assisted two goals in the Copa del Rey final (three wins and two titles).
A victory or draw today could also bring Barcelona into it for the La Liga title, which could mean four titles for Lamine Yamal this season.
Yamal’s second chance to make his mark arrives when the UEFA Nations League Final Four begins, as Spain will face France on June 5.
Yamal’s heroics in helping Spain advance to this stage against the Netherlands will be crucial in trying to attain a second consecutive title, which would help his case considerably.
While Dembele will only enhance his chances at winning the Ballon d’Or, especially if PSG gets a treble in their favor, the stature of Ligue 1 is less prestigious than the others, allowing for other suitors.
If Inter wins the Champions League, Lautaro Martínez could be a possible beneficiary.
Still, Yamal could easily bypass this year’s possibilities with a performance in El Clasico and sensational performances in the Nations League, and take home the ultimate individual prize in football.
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