Former Cristiano Ronaldo agent names his Ballon d’Or winner this season
Context:
Jorge Mendes, the former agent of Cristiano Ronaldo, has endorsed 17-year-old Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal as the deserving recipient of this season's Ballon d’Or. Yamal has been instrumental in Barcelona's resurgence, showcasing remarkable skill and maturity by scoring 16 goals and assisting 20 times in 52 matches. His impact extends beyond club football, contributing significantly to Spain's Euro-winning campaign and upcoming Nations League semi-final against France. Despite competition from renowned players like Raphinha and Ousmane Dembele, Yamal's consistency and pivotal performances have caught the attention of fans and football experts alike. Mendes' advocacy for Yamal underscores the teenager's extraordinary potential and ability to excel against seasoned competitors, making him a standout figure in this year's football season.
Dive Deeper:
Jorge Mendes, known for managing high-profile football players, has publicly supported Lamine Yamal, a young talent from Barcelona, for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award this season.
Yamal's performance has been noteworthy, contributing 16 goals and 20 assists in 52 appearances, which is an impressive feat for someone of his age and experience level.
His contributions have been vital for Barcelona's campaign to reclaim their top position in La Liga, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure in significant matches.
On the international stage, Yamal was a part of Spain's successful Euro campaign and is expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming Nations League semi-final against France.
The endorsement from Mendes highlights Yamal's unique blend of skill, maturity, and consistency that has made him a subject of admiration among football aficionados and a potential future star.
Yamal's rise to prominence challenges the status quo, as it's rare for someone so young to make such an impact, drawing comparisons with established players and elevating his standing within the sport.
The conversation around Yamal's capabilities and his potential Ballon d’Or win emphasizes the shifting dynamics in football, where young talents are increasingly making their mark on the global stage.
When Jorge Mendes speaks, football listens (considering for the players he has worked for).
The former agent of Cristiano Ronaldo has thrown his weight behind a new star. And this time, it’s not a big name from Madrid or Manchester. It’s Barcelona’s 17-year-old wonderkid, Lamine Yamal.
Yamal has been in the spotlight all season. The teenager has played like a seasoned pro in a Barcelona side fighting its way back to the top.
Now, Mendes says Yamal should be crowned the best player in the world this year.
“Lamine Yamal deserves to win the Ballon d’Or this year. He’s been the best player in the world this season, that’s very clear. Lamine’s level has been worth the Ballon d’Or,” Mendes told reporters (quoted by Fabrizio Romano).
Big words. But are they just bold talk, or is there real weight behind them?
Can Lamine Yamal win the 2025 Ballon d’Or?
Let’s look at the numbers. Yamal has 16 goals and 20 assists in 52 matches this season. Not bad for a teenager still in high school (at least age-wise).He’s been key in Barcelona’s push for the La Liga title and was part of Spain’s Euro-winning squad last year.
There’s more on his plate too. Spain will face France in the Nations League semi-final next month. A strong showing there could boost his chances even more.
Yes, others like Raphinha and Ousmane Dembele are in the conversation. But Yamal’s mix of skill, consistency, and big-game performances has made many fans — and now Mendes — stand up and take notice.
It’s not often someone this young makes such noise. But then again, it’s not every season you see a teen take on giants and make it look easy.
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