Lamine Yamal reflects on his Ballon d'Or hopes and personal growth

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal has shared his thoughts on missing out on the Ballon d'Or, expressing that he initially believed he could win it. In a recent YouTube video, he stated the experience was 'good' for his development, acknowledging the importance of timing and maturity in his career. Yamal, who played a significant role in Spain's Euro 2024 victory, highlighted his admiration for Ousmane Dembele and Neymar as inspirations. As he prepares for the World Cup, Yamal vowed to grow a beard and moustache for three weeks if Spain triumphs. His reflections come as he continues to build his career at his current club.

• 9:10 AMYahoo Sports — “Looking back, I think it was very good for me that Dembélé won it” — Lamine Yamal turns Ballon d’Or heartbreak into hunger for 2026 glory
• 6:20 AMYahoo Sports — ‘It was good for me that Dembele won’ – Lamine Yamal admits he expected to win Ballon d’Or