Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has addressed recent remarks from Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, who publicly stated he deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or. During an interview with Movistar on Sunday, Yamal identified himself and Madrid talisman Kylian Mbappe as the top players globally, while asserting that he should be the one to claim the individual honor at the ceremony scheduled for October 26 in London. Yamal, who finished as the runner-up in the 2025 rankings, has enjoyed a decorated year, securing the World Cup, LaLiga, and the Supercopa de España.
When questioned about these comments during a press conference held before Real Madrid’s LaLiga fixture against Elche, Mourinho declined to engage deeply with the player’s assertions. The Portuguese tactician, who began his second stint as Madrid’s head coach this June, has previously expressed his own stance on the award. Last month, he argued that the trophy should be presented to the individual deemed the best player in the world, regardless of their success in tournaments like the World Cup or Champions League, suggesting that Mbappe is a worthy recipient.
Mbappe has also been vocal regarding his own candidacy, recently telling the media that his achievements this year—including securing the Pichichi and the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot—make him a strong contender. The discourse surrounding Yamal’s claims has drawn criticism from others in the football community as well. Former Barcelona defender Abelardo Fernández explicitly disagreed with the young winger’s public declaration, stating, “I didn’t like that he said that.”
Yamal remains a prominent figure in the race, having been named among the 30 finalists for the prize. This nomination marks his third consecutive year appearing on the shortlist for the prestigious individual accolade.
