Lamine Yamal criticized for Ballon d'Or comments by Abelardo Fernandez

Lamine Yamal's statements asserting he deserves the Ballon d'Or have drawn criticism from former Barcelona player Abelardo Fernandez. Yamal expressed his belief during an interview that, alongside Kylian Mbappe, he should be considered one of the best players in the world and a frontrunner for the award. Abelardo stated that while players can have such thoughts, publicly voicing them is unwise, arguing that it presents a negative image. He referenced Lionel Messi, highlighting that he has never made similar claims. Abelardo's critique extends to Mbappe's recent comments about his own Ballon d'Or candidacy, indicating a general disapproval of players speaking in this manner.

• 8:40 AMYahoo Sports — Former Barcelona star criticises Lamine Yamal over Ballon d’Or comments: ‘Not conveying anything positive’