Yamal Claims, He Deserves to Win Ballon d’Or than Mbappe
Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal believes he deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or ahead of Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe, setting the stage for what could become one of the most intriguing individual battles in world football.
Yamal and Mbappe have emerged as central figures for Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively, with both forwards continuing to produce impressive numbers at club and international level.
The rivalry for the 2026 Ballon d’Or has now begun to take shape after Yamal openly declared his belief that he should claim the prestigious award.
Speaking on the Universo Valdano programme on Movistar, Yamal acknowledged Mbappe’s quality but insisted that the pair currently stand above the rest of the competition.
“Right now, there are two of the best players in the world. For me, Kylian and I are the best players, and everyone who watches football knows that. This year, I believe I deserve to win it,” Yamal said, as reported by Diario SPORT.
The comments appear to be a response to Mbappe’s own confidence regarding the award. The France international previously suggested that this year’s Ballon d’Or could have a different winner while expressing confidence in his own chances after another prolific campaign with Real Madrid and France.
When the discussion turns to achievements throughout 2026, however, Yamal may have a stronger argument. Mbappe has continued to establish himself as one of the world’s most dangerous goalscorers, but he has yet to add major silverware with either Real Madrid or France during the period under consideration.
Yamal, by contrast, played a key role in Barcelona’s success during the year, helping the Catalan club secure the La Liga title. He was also part of the Spain squad that won the World Cup for a second time.
The individual battle remains far from settled, particularly with both players continuing to perform at a high level this season. Mbappe has already registered seven goals and one assist under Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid. Yamal has produced a similar attacking output for Barcelona, contributing seven goals and two assists.
Their numbers are therefore remarkably close, leaving the Ballon d’Or race likely to depend not only on individual statistics but also on trophies, decisive performances and contributions in the biggest matches.
For Yamal, however, there is no ambiguity about his ambition. The Barcelona teenager believes he has already done enough to put himself ahead of Mbappe.
The coming months will determine whether that confidence is ultimately justified, but one thing is certain: the battle between Yamal and Mbappe for the 2026 Ballon d’Or has already begun.
