Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe has declined to support Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal’s candidacy for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, despite acknowledging the youngster’s talent.
Speaking in an interview with BILD, the France captain praised Yamal but stopped short of backing him for football’s most prestigious individual award—citing club rivalry as the reason.
“Lamine Yamal? He is a very good player, but he is from Barcelona. I can’t say anything,” Mbappe said, as quoted by Le Parisien.
Both Mbappe and Yamal are among the top 30 nominees for this year’s Ballon d’Or. Yamal’s inclusion comes after a standout season with Barcelona, where he played a crucial role in the club’s successful campaign.
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The 17-year-old Spanish international helped Barcelona reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and was instrumental in their domestic double—winning both LaLiga and the Copa del Rey.
While Mbappe refrained from offering his endorsement, Yamal’s performances continue to draw attention as the Ballon d’Or race heats up.
