Lamine Yamal says his unique style makes him a Ballon d’Or contender

Lamine Yamal believes his distinctive style of play, rather than simply his goals or trophies, is one of the main reasons he should be considered for the Ballon d’Or.

The Barcelona and Spain winger discussed his chances of winning the prestigious award in an interview with French newspaper L’Equipe, saying the prize should recognise players who make a special impact through their talent and the way they entertain supporters.

Yamal said the Ballon d’Or should not automatically go to the player who scores the most goals or wins the greatest number of trophies during a season.

“The Ballon d’Or, as I have said, is the award given to the best player in the world, to an exceptional player who you enjoy watching so much that you might watch an entire match just because of him,” Yamal said, as reported by Spanish newspaper Marca on Tuesday.

“I think that is what an exceptional player means. It is not about the number of goals he scores or anything like that.”

When asked which players he associated with the award, Yamal named two of the most celebrated figures in football history: Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho.

“When I think about the Ballon d’Or, I remember Messi or Ronaldinho,” he said. “They were different players and they made you smile when you watched them play.”

Yamal highlights his strengths

Yamal, who has won several trophies with Barcelona and the World Cup with Spain, said his approach on the pitch was what set him apart.

“I think all the fans know my strengths,” he said. “I go on to the pitch, I enjoy myself, I play well and I play in my own way.

“Fortunately, I have also managed to win many trophies with Barcelona and, on top of that, I won the most important trophy, the World Cup, with my country.

“But beyond all that, I think my style of play is my biggest strength. That is what makes me different.”

The young winger also stressed that individual awards are closely linked to a team’s results. He argued that a player’s performance is enhanced when his club or national side is winning.

“I think all of that makes me a good candidate,” Yamal said. “In the end, that is very important, because as well as being a good player, I think the best player is always the one who makes his team win.

“When your team wins, everyone stands out more and everyone shines more.”

Yamal also spoke positively about his current form with Barcelona and Spain, with both sides enjoying a successful period.

“Thank God, we have been winning with the national team for a year,” he said. “With Barcelona, we are winning as well. We are very happy and want to continue winning. Personally, I am very happy.”

The winner of the Ballon d’Or is due to be announced on Monday, 26 October, in London.