Barcelona legend, Gerard Pique, has backed teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, placing him ahead of fellow contender and former teammate Ousmane Dembele.
Pique, who shared the pitch with both players during his time at the Camp Nou, acknowledged their incredible talent but expressed a preference for the 17-year-old Yamal, citing his ties to Barcelona and impressive rise in world football.
Yamal’s 2024/25 season was nothing short of extraordinary, netting 21 goals and providing 25 assists across 62 matches.
His performances proved pivotal in Barca’s treble-winning campaign, where they clinched La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup titles.
He also played a significant role in the Champions League knockout stages, drawing plaudits for his composure and creativity on the big stage.
Dembele, now thriving at Paris Saint-Germain, enjoyed his finest season to date under Luis Enrique.
The Frenchman found the net 33 times in 49 appearances, excelling in a false nine role and playing a central role in PSG’s historic first UEFA Champions League triumph.
His efforts were rewarded with the Champions League Player of the Season accolade.
With the Ballon d’Or race heating up, both players have earned widespread praise from media and fellow professionals. But Pique has a soft spot for the young winger currently dazzling at his former club.
Speaking at the Viva Technology event this week, as quoted by MARCA, Pique shared, “I played with both of them (Dembele and Yamal). I had the opportunity to share a dressing room with Ousmane and Lamine. They’re both incredible people. I love them both very much. Ousmane was like a brother to me because, when he arrived, you already know what he’s like. And Lamine too, I think he’s very, very talented, very special.
“I would prefer Lamine because he’s now at Barca and also in the King’s League. He has a team, so I would like Lamine to win it. He’s very, very young, very talented, and I think he’s very special. But I also really like Ousmane, and if he wins it in the end, I’ll be happy for him.”
As anticipation builds for the prestigious award, Pique’s endorsement adds another layer of excitement to what could become one of the closest Ballon d’Or races in recent years.
