Yamal: Mbappe and I are the two best in the world, but I deserve Ballon d’Or

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has insisted that he deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, pointing to the titles he won and his achievements during the previous season.

The Spain international made the claim after scoring twice in Barcelona’s 4-2 victory over Levante on Sunday.

Yamal also placed himself alongside Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe as one of the two best players in the world, but believes he should ultimately take home the prestigious individual award.

Yamal makes Ballon d’Or case

Speaking to Movistar after his brace against Levante, Yamal explained why he believes his achievements make him a deserving candidate for the award.

“I believe I deserve this Ballon d’Or also because of the titles I have won and achieved last season”. “That’s my view”, told Movistar after scoring a brace for Barcelona in 4-2 win over Levante on Sunday.

The Barcelona youngster has emerged as one of the leading names in the Ballon d’Or discussion following another impressive period with the Catalan club.

Yamal puts himself ahead of Mbappe

Yamal was also asked about his standing alongside Mbappe and made it clear that he believes he has the stronger claim to the award.

“Kylian Mbappé and I, we are the two BEST in the world… …but I think I AM the one who deserves to win the Ballon d’Or”, told Movistar

His comments are likely to add further intrigue to an increasingly competitive Ballon d’Or race, with Yamal and Mbappe among the players attracting significant attention ahead of the awards ceremony.