Hansi Flick backs Lamine Yamal for 2026 Ballon d’Or

Lamine Yamal has received strong public support from Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick in his bid for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

The 19-year-old winger has made an impressive start to the La Liga campaign, scoring six goals in five appearances and placing himself firmly among the leading contenders for football’s most prestigious individual prize.

Yamal recently began promoting his candidacy, confidently stating that he believes he deserves to win the award. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Flick defended his player’s ambition and praised the confidence behind his position.

“I’m only talking about Lamine, not Kylian Mbappe. I think he is honest, he has confidence in himself, and he has shown at the start of the season how strong he is. He is an exceptional player,” Flick said.

The German coach admitted he would have preferred Yamal to express himself differently, but accepted the youngster’s desire to claim the trophy. Flick also pointed to Yamal’s achievements, including two titles with Barcelona and the World Cup with Spain, as evidence supporting his case.

“He says he deserves to win the Ballon d’Or, and I think he deserves it too,” Flick added.