Is it too early to call Lamine Yamal the greatest player in the world… or is it exactly the right time? The 17-year-old La Masia prodigy owns the grass like a seasoned professional, conducting play and embarrassing defenders—all while being barely old enough to drive.
The noise is getting louder with Barcelona officially league champions and domestic treble winners. The people are calling for a historic win. Yamal scored tonight’s all-important goal to secure the league and have the tassels in the famous Blaugrana colours again. He topped off an impressive performance with a goal for the ages – a classic left-footed Lamine Yamal curler into the top corner. He celebrated the win in a familiar Messi style.
Ronaldo Nazário (more popularly known as R9) is the youngest Ballon d’Or winner in the trophy’s history, at 21 years, three months, and five days. Lamine Yamal could not win the trophy for another four years, and still be younger than Nazário, and it wouldn’t surprise anyone if he completed it.
As the season progressed, so did Yamal. His goal contributions have been – to put it bluntly – mental. He has managed 17 goals and 25 assists in 53 games in all competitions. His Champions League run was truly commendable, regardless of club affiliation. He scored five goals and supplied four assists in 13 games, helping take Barcelona to the semi-finals. No one can deny the raw talent this youngster possesses.
At 17, he has six major trophies. A European championship, 2x Spanish champion, 1x Spanish cup winner, 1x Spanish cup winner and tonight – a treble-winning La Liga holding champion.
Could a Ballon d’Or soon be added to this booming cabinet?
There is no doubt that it can be debated. Some say yes, and of course, some say no. His numbers stand out. His age stands out, and he stands out. Ousmane Dembélé and Mohammed Salah are also keen contenders, having stand-out seasons in their respective leagues. Both are league champions, however, Dembélé has leverage due to PSG’s spot in the Champions league final. You also can’t ignore the season of fellow Barcelona winger, Raphinha, who currently looks favourite for the solo trophy. All four contenders have put in wild numbers and would be worthy of the trophy. However, trophies also talk, and a Champions League win could put Dembélé over the line and secure the win.
The craziest part of the debate is that Yamal could not win it in the next four years and will still be the youngest winner. There is no doubt he’s not even touched his ceiling yet, and next season will offer fans more than the current one. Realistically, due to their goal contributions, other players are more worthy of the trophy this year, mainly Raphinha and Dembélé. However, Yamal’s name will be circulated in the headlines for months before the ceremony. He could surprise us all. He already has.
Barcelona has another golden boy in another golden era. He will wear the famous 10 on his back next season and carry the weight of it as well. The Ballon d’Or phone will be ringing for Lamine Yamal this year, and the next, and undoubtedly, the next.