Former Real Madrid player Victor Munoz backs Lamine Yamal for Ballon d’Or

Liverpool player Victor Munoz has selected Lamine Yamal ahead of Kylian Mbappe for the Ballon d’Or, despite his previous links with Real Madrid and having played alongside Mbappe last season.

Munoz told Spanish newspaper Diario AS that he would give his vote to the Barcelona and Spain forward, who is competing with Mbappe and Harry Kane for the award.

“I will give it to Lamine. He is my team-mate in the national team and I believe he deserves it,” Munoz said.

He added that whoever wins the award would be worthy of the honour, but made clear that Yamal would be his personal choice.

The winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on 26 October, with Yamal, Mbappe and Kane involved in a closely contested race for the prize.

Munoz has experience of both Barcelona and Real Madrid. He joined Barcelona’s academy as a child before later spending time with Real Madrid.

Reflecting on those experiences, Munoz said his time at Barcelona had taught him about teamwork and the club’s particular methodology. He added that Real Madrid’s more direct style suited his own abilities better.

He is now continuing his career with Liverpool, having benefited from his development at both Spanish clubs. Munoz also expressed his gratitude for the periods he spent at each academy.