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Barcelona forward, Raphinha has said 19-year-old teammate, Lamine Yamal should win the 2026 Ballon d’Or “by a long way”.
The Brazilian made the assertion in an interview with RAC1, per Barca Universal.
Raphinha, who has netted 11 times in seven appearances this season, said the Spaniard’s performances in the biggest competitions this past season should earn him the top honour.
“Lamine has to win the Ballon d’Or, no matter what – there’s no other option. With all due respect to the others, but Lamine, by a long way, has to win this award,” he said.
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Raphinha added that the 2026 World Cup and La Liga winner already has enough silverware and individual quality to justify his case, saying, “I think three titles are enough.”
He also expressed disbelief at being left out of the 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist alongside teammate Pedri.
“I think it’s unfair. Not just for me, but for Pedri too. I think he should have been on there as well,” he said.
The Ballon d’Or will be presented at a ceremony in London on October 26.
