“I want to leave a mark in football” - Lamine Yamal makes confident claim after becoming youngest player to be nominated for men’s Ballon d'Or
Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal has spoken up after becoming the youngest player to be nominated for the Ballon d'Or. The teenage sensation was named as part of the 30-man shortlist of players to compete for the 2024 edition of the prestigious award.
Yamal made his senior debut in the 2022-23 season aged before going on to become a regular for club and country at just 16. The youngster was awarded 'The Youngest' award in the Golden Boy category during the 2023-24 season in recognition of his performances.
Lamine Yamal was pictured on the cover of the France Football magazine, and he spoke about how he felt to receive the accolade. He also made a statement about his career goals and motivation as a player.
He said (via @BarcaUniversal):
"It's incredible to be on the cover of France Football, the magazine that awards the Ballon d'Or. It feels surreal, but I am grateful and excited for what is to come.
"I want to leave a mark in world football. Being among the 30 finalists for the Ballon d'Or and a top candidate for the Kopa Trophy at 17 is a dream. I'm the youngest in history to achieve this, and it motivates me even more."
Lamine Yamal was one of the standout players for Barcelona last season and continued his form to the national team. He was named the Best Young Player of Euro 2024 after recording a goal and four assists in seven appearances in Spain's victorious campaign.
Yamal has continued his fine form to the current season under new Barca boss Hansi Flick, with a goal and four assists in four appearances across competitions. The youngster is a frontrunner for the 2024 Kopa Trophy, having been nominated alongside nine others.
Manchester United, Real Madrid players named alongside Lamine Yamal for 2024 Ballon d'Or Kopa Trophy
Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal has been nominated for the 2024 Kopa Trophy for the best U-21 player in the game. The youngster is joined by Barcelona teammate Pau Cubarsi and Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler in the shortlist.
The Manchester United duo of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo are also in the shortlist, as well as Manchester City winger Savinho. PSG teenage sensations Joao Neves and Warren Zaire-Emery are also there, as are RB Salzburg striker Karim Konate and Bayern Munich forward Mathys Tel.
Yamal is a frontrunner to succeed Jude Bellingham to win the award and follow in the footsteps of teammates Gavi and Pedri. The 17-year-old is already a global star and is also among the players nominated for the Ballon d'Or.