Deco criticizes exclusion of Raphinha and Pedri from Ballon d'Or list

Barcelona sporting director Deco has publicly condemned the omission of Raphinha and Pedri from the 2026 Ballon d'Or nominee list. The club officials expressed disagreement with the selection process, describing the exclusion of the two players as a global scandal. Deco argued that individual awards in football are inherently unfair because the sport is a collective effort. While Raphinha and Pedri were left off the 30-man shortlist, Barcelona teammates Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Pau Cubarsi earned nominations. Deco identified Yamal as his personal favorite to win the award, citing his performance for both Barcelona and the national team. Manager Hansi Flick also voiced support for Yamal's candidacy, though the player stated he would not lobby for the trophy.

• 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — ‘It’s a global scandal’ – Deco hits out after Pedri and Raphinha miss out on Ballon d’Or nominations