Barcelona's rising star Lamine Yamal has openly declared that winning the prestigious Ballon d'Or award is no longer a primary concern in his career. The young winger emphasized that his focus has shifted decisively towards achieving collective success with both his club and the Spanish national team.
From Individual Glory to Team Triumphs
Despite a remarkable season where he helped Barcelona secure a domestic treble—winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España—Yamal finished as the runner-up in the 2025 Ballon d'Or voting. Paris Saint-Germain's Ousmane Dembélé claimed the top honor, but Yamal's performance highlighted his growing influence on the pitch.
A Mature Perspective on Awards
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Yamal shared his thoughtful insights on individual accolades. He explained that such awards are often unpredictable and not solely dependent on a player's efforts. "I don't think about it. It's an award that, if you focus on it too much, you won't get any answers," he stated. "It depends on what you win, how you play and who votes. It's not something decided solely by your performances."
This mature outlook reflects Yamal's prioritization of enjoyment and teamwork over personal recognition. He added, "I just want to enjoy myself and win with Barca and the national team. My game isn't based on statistics. It can cause debate because sometimes I play well and don't score, and other times I score and don't play as well. But my goal is to play well, help the team win and keep it that way."
Embracing a Team-First Mentality
Yamal's comments underscore a significant shift in his mindset as he continues to develop as a professional footballer. By downplaying the importance of individual honors like the Ballon d'Or, he aligns himself with a philosophy that values collective achievements and sustained performance. This approach not only benefits his personal growth but also strengthens the cohesion within Barcelona and the Spanish squad.
As one of the most promising talents in European football, Yamal's focus on team success could inspire younger players to adopt a similar perspective. His ability to balance skill with humility positions him as a role model in the sport, demonstrating that true greatness often lies in contributing to a shared victory rather than pursuing solo accolades.
