Lamine Yamal talks Raphinha, Messi, new signings, Champions League, World Cup, Ballon d'Or: 'I play to make history'

Lamine Yamal has added fresh fuel to the Ballon d’Or conversation, speaking to L’Equipe after finishing second last year at age 18. The Barcelona forward, a world champion with Spain and a three-time league winner, said he sees the award as recognition for “the best player of the year” and for the style of play that makes fans want to watch. He pointed to his strongest argument being his way of playing and cited winning the World Cup as an added advantage. While he acknowledged rivals including Messi and Rodri as deserving, he framed his mentality as relentless: if he doesn’t win, he expects to win the next year—and then “five more.”