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Barcelona captain Raphinha has thrown his full support behind teammate Lamine Yamal for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, arguing that the teenage forward combines individual numbers, team success and the on-field influence needed to claim football's leading individual award.
With 100 journalists from around the world expected to submit their Ballon d'Or ballots to France Football by Sept. 28, Raphinha said there was "without a doubt" only one choice for him.
"Well, above all. I believe that winning the Ballon d'Or is about individual statistics, team honors and the magic he has on the pitch. Charisma and everything like this. For me, these are the most important points to win the award. And I think Lamine has them all," Raphinha said in an interview with The Guardian and La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Raphinha argued that Yamal's case goes beyond his performances this season, pointing out that the Barcelona forward has consistently put up strong numbers over several campaigns.
He also highlighted the trophies Yamal has collected, saying the teenager won three titles last season, including two with Barcelona and the World Cup with the Spanish national team.
The Barcelona captain described Yamal as one of the most important players for both his club and Spain, saying those achievements made his Ballon d'Or choice clear.
"For me, there's no doubt. For me, Lamine has to take the prize no matter what," Raphinha said.
Raphinha also pushed back against the idea that his backing came simply from sharing a dressing room with Yamal, insisting he would reach the same conclusion even if the two played for different clubs.
"No matter what, he should win. Others will defend their player, but for me it's easily him. Even if I wasn't his teammate, I would say that he deserves it," he said.
Raphinha added that Yamal's performances, individual numbers and trophies formed the basis of his support, once again describing him as a key figure for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
"For what he did on the pitch and the numbers he has, the titles he achieved... He should win it," he said.
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