Former Germany striker Mario Gomez has tipped Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal to win multiple Ballon d’Or titles—provided he avoids major injuries throughout his career.
As the football world builds anticipation ahead of the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony, conversations around potential future winners are heating up. Gomez added his voice to the debate on 9 June, declaring that Yamal has the talent and mentality to become the sport’s most decorated individual, should he remain physically fit.
“Lamine Yamal will win the Ballon d’Or multiple times if he stays injury-free,” Gomez stated. “He has everything it takes to dominate world football.”
The comments from the former Bayern Munich and Fiorentina forward have sparked widespread discussion, as the 17-year-old continues to draw attention for his rapid rise at FC Barcelona.
Known for his dazzling footwork, vision, and composure far beyond his years, Yamal has emerged as one of the brightest talents in Europe.
Comparisons with modern legends have already begun. Like Cristiano Ronaldo before him, Yamal is seen by many as a generational player capable of defining an era.
Gomez’s prediction reinforces that belief, placing the young winger among the elite, even at this early stage of his career.
The Ballon d’Or conversation this year has largely been dominated by more seasoned stars, including Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembélé and Barcelona teammates such as Raphinha and Pedri. French superstar Kylian Mbappé has openly backed his international colleague Dembélé, praising his influence at both club and national levels.
However, many within the Barcelona fanbase are not ready to count out their own. Supporters of the Catalan club have been vocal in their support for Yamal, citing his breakout performances, match-winning displays, and maturity in high-pressure scenarios as justification for future accolades.
Others, meanwhile, point to Raphinha’s consistency or Pedri’s midfield brilliance as key to Barcelona’s campaign, fueling debate over who has had the most impact.
While Yamal may not yet be the leading contender for this year’s award, his trajectory suggests it may only be a matter of time.
Mario Gomez’s statement puts added focus on the long-term potential of the Barcelona youngster. For a player still in his teens, maintaining fitness and continuing to develop under the pressures of elite-level football will be essential. But if his current form is any indication, Yamal could be on the path to greatness.
Gomez, who made over 70 appearances for Germany and played in multiple World Cups and European Championships, is no stranger to top-level competition.
His endorsement carries weight, especially when delivered with such confidence.
As the Ballon d’Or ceremony nears and the debate over current stars continues, attention is also turning toward the next generation. With praise like this, Lamine Yamal is not just part of the conversation—he is rapidly becoming its future.
