Xavi Hernández is steadfast in his belief that a Barcelona talent is destined to capture the prestigious Ballon d’Or soon.
Speaking to Marca, as relayed by The Standard, Xavi reflected on the recent 2025 Ballon d’Or, where team achievements swayed the outcome, but expressed unwavering confidence in the teenager’s future.
With an already impressive list of accolades, this rising star’s path to glory hinges on collective success, a point Xavi emphasized as critical for securing the prestigious award.
The prodigy is Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old winger who finished runner-up to Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele in the 2025 Ballon d’Or, as reported by the Evening Standard. Yamal successfully defended his Kopa Trophy, crowning him the world’s best under-21 player.
Xavi, who handed Yamal his Barcelona debut at 15, “Lamine will win it, I’m convinced—but when his team wins the Champions League or a World Cup.”
He highlighted the weight of collective titles, noting Vitinha, Mohamed Salah, Pedri, and Raphinha as deserving contenders last year.
Xavi’s conviction stems from Yamal’s fearless presence in training. “We said he was Ballon d’Or material,” he recalled, praising Yamal’s confidence and ability to shine among veterans.
“He wasn’t afraid of anything… he’s one of the chosen ones.” Yamal’s breakout season, with 18 goals and 21 assists, solidified his role as a cornerstone for Barcelona and Spain.
His debut under Xavi showcased a maturity beyond his years, fearless in high-pressure moments.
For Yamal to claim the Ballon d’Or, Xavi insists that major silverware—like the Champions League or World Cup—is essential to complement his individual brilliance.
Xavi’s assertion that Yamal could “define an era” carries weight, given his own storied career.
With the football world buzzing, Yamal’s journey toward Ballon d’Or glory promises to captivate, provided his team delivers the trophies to match his potential.
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