2026 Ballon d’Or: Raphinha names player to should win it “by a mile”

Barcelona forward, Raphinha, has backed team mate Lamine Yamal to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

Although Raphinha was snubbed, Yamal is one of the 30 nominees shortlisted for the award.

The 19-year-old is one of the frontrunners for the prize after winning trophies with Barcelona and Spain.

Raphinha has now hailed Yamal as one of the best footballers in the world.

“Lamine Yamal should win the Ballon d’Or by a mile,” Raphinha said.

“He has the numbers, he has won trophies, with the club and he has won the World Cup.

“People will pay whatever it takes to watch him play, and I would pay it too.”