‘Harry Kane didn’t deserve it’ – Lamine Yamal’s uncle blasts Ballon d’Or decision

Lamine Yamal’s uncle, Abdul, has criticised Harry Kane’s 2026 Ballon d’Or triumph, insisting the Barcelona teenager was more deserving of football’s most prestigious individual award.

Kane claimed the honour after an outstanding 12 months for club and country, finishing ahead of Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe, who placed second, and Yamal, who had to settle for third.

The England captain enjoyed a prolific campaign, scoring 73 goals for club and country while helping Bayern Munich secure a league and cup double in Germany. He also inspired England to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, Kane’s success has sparked debate over whether Yamal should have received the award, with the teenager’s uncle expressing his disappointment at the outcome.

Speaking to El Larguero, Abdul questioned the decision to recognise Kane ahead of his nephew, arguing that Yamal’s influence on the pitch made him the more deserving candidate.

“I think it’s a mistake and very sad. My nephew is the best player in the world, everyone knows it,’ he told El Larguero.

‘If you like football, you go to see Lamine’

Abdul acknowledged Kane’s qualities as a goalscorer but insisted the Bayern Munich striker did not offer the same level of entertainment as Yamal.

“If you like football, you go to see Lamine, not Harry Kane. Kane is a great goal scorer, but Lamine shines on the pitch.

“As Lamine is young, he has time, and that’s why they’re not giving him this opportunity.”

His comments suggest he believes Yamal’s age has worked against him in the race for individual recognition, despite the teenager’s achievements at the highest level.

At 19, Yamal has already established himself as one of Barcelona’s most influential players, helping the Catalan giants win LaLiga during the period under consideration.

He also won the World Cup with Spain, further strengthening his case for the Ballon d’Or, although the final voting placed him behind Kane and Mbappe.

Yamal’s third-place finish was accompanied by another individual accolade, as he claimed his third consecutive Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best player under the age of 21.

Yamal’s uncle predicts five Ballon d’Or awards

Despite his disappointment, Abdul remains convinced that his nephew will eventually dominate the award, predicting that the Barcelona star could win it five times during his career.

“I’m sure Lamine will end up winning five. In a few days, Lamine’s sadness will be over.”

The prediction reflects the confidence surrounding Yamal’s potential, with the teenager already attracting comparisons with some of football’s greatest players.

His technical ability, creativity and influence in the final third have made him a central figure for Barcelona and Spain, while his continued success at youth level has reinforced expectations of further individual honours.

Nevertheless, Kane’s triumph was supported by an exceptional goalscoring record and a season of major achievements with Bayern Munich and England.

The debate over the 2026 Ballon d’Or is likely to continue, with supporters weighing Kane’s remarkable productivity against Yamal’s technical brilliance and growing influence.