Max Eberl sends message to Lamine Yamal over Ballon d’Or ambitions

Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has offered a pointed response to Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or ambitions, suggesting the game’s elite players should not need to promote their own credentials.

“The best players are those who don’t need a campaign,” Eberl said when asked about the Barcelona winger’s public belief that he deserves the award.

Yamal, 19, has a strong case after an outstanding 2025-26 season for club and country. He helped Barcelona win La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup before playing a key role as Spain lifted the 2026 World Cup.

The winger also produced exceptional individual numbers. Across all club competitions, he registered 24 goals and 17 assists, including 16 goals and 12 assists in the league. Those performances earned him the La Liga Player of the Season award.

Eberl’s remark adds another layer to an increasingly high-profile debate around the Ballon d’Or. While Yamal’s achievements provide compelling evidence for his candidacy, the Bayern executive’s view is that performances alone should make the case.

The award discussion is likely to intensify as voters weigh trophies, consistency and influence across the season. For Yamal, the challenge will be ensuring his football remains the loudest argument.