Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has thrown his support behind Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, predicting a brilliant future for the winger and naming him among his top picks for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
Yamal, who boasts Equatorial Guinean and Moroccan heritage, has enjoyed a standout season with Barcelona, contributing 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 games across all competitions.
Ahead of Spain’s Nations League semi-final against France, De la Fuente expressed his admiration for Yamal, stating, “I’m not only in love with Lamine’s football, but I predict a brilliant future for him.”
When asked about the Ballon d’Or, De la Fuente revealed that he would vote for any of the three Spanish players nominated—Lamine Yamal, Pedri, or Fabián Ruiz.
“If I have to vote, I’ll vote for Lamine, Pedri, or Fabián,” he said, highlighting the trio’s impressive talents and potential.
Yamal’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with the 17-year-old becoming the youngest player to reach 100 competitive appearances for Barcelona.