Lamine Yamal criticized for Ballon d'Or comments by Abelardo Fernandez
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 1:18 PM
Last updated Sep 15, 2026
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.
- •Lamine Yamal publicly claims he deserves the Ballon d'Or.
- •Abelardo Fernandez criticizes Yamal for his public comments.
- •Yamal believes he and Mbappe are the best players this year.
- •Abelardo advises players to be more reserved in public statements.
- •Comments reflect ongoing discussions about player attitudes and awards.
- 1:58 PMESPN Soccer — Barça boss Flick backs Yamal Ballon d'Or claim
- 8:40 AMYahoo Sports — Former Barcelona star criticises Lamine Yamal over Ballon d’Or comments: ‘Not conveying anything positive’
"Lamine Yamal’s confidence has never been in doubt. His decision to publicly say he deserves the Ballon d’Or, though, has drawn criticism from a former Barcelona player who believes the teenager sh...
"Barcelona coach Hansi Flick backed Lamine Yamal's claim that he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or and dismissed concerns about the teenager's ego.
Sources
External links- ESPN SoccerSep 15, 2026, 1:58 PMBarça boss Flick backs Yamal Ballon d'Or claim
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick backed Lamine Yamal's claim that he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or and dismissed concerns about the teenager's ego.
- Yahoo SportsSep 14, 2026, 8:40 AMFormer Barcelona star criticises Lamine Yamal over Ballon d’Or comments: ‘Not conveying anything positive’
Lamine Yamal’s confidence has never been in doubt. His decision to publicly say he deserves the Ballon d’Or, though, has drawn criticism from a former Barcelona player who believes the teenager sh...
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