Ballon d’Or 2026: ‘He alone deserves it’ – Joao Cancelo names favourite to win award

Barcelona star, Joao Cancelo has named his teammate Lamine Yamal as the only player positioned to win the Ballon d’Or this year.

He emphasised that the young player has demonstrated why he is regarded as the best in the world for both his club and national team.

In a media interaction, Cancelo said that Yamal stands out as the best player in the world. He does not believe any other competitor merits the Ballon d’Or this year and remarked:

“The only player who deserves to win the Ballon d’Or is Lamine Yamal. At just 19, he has already secured numerous trophies, including the World Cup, 

“Euros, and various titles with Barça, and his season has been remarkable… he is undoubtedly the best talent and player in the world. In my opinion, there is no other contender for the Ballon d’Or. It must be Lamine.”

Barcelona boss, Hansi Flick, also described Yamal as a unique talent, stating that no other player comes close to the Spain international.

“Naturally, he is my player, a player for Barcelona. He deserves to win the Ballon d’Or. For me, it’s fantastic. His special qualities are evident in every match. No one possesses what he has. I firmly believe he deserves it.”

“Lionel Messi remains the last player from Barcelona to have won the Ballon d’Or.