Lamine Yamal backed to dominate Ballon d’Or in the future by former winner: ‘Once he wins, he’ll keep it for several years’

FC Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has established himself as one of the biggest names in world football.

At just 19, the winger continues to attract admiration for his ability to change games and dominate opponents.

His talent and quality has placed him firmly in conversations about the sport’s most prestigious individual awards, with him being one of the favourites for the 2026 Ballon d’Or. 

Yamal has already shown that he can compete with some of the most established stars, while his potential for further development has fuelled debate about just how far he can go. 

For former France striker Jean-Pierre Papin, who won the Ballon d’Or in 1991, the Barcelona youngster has all the qualities needed to become one of the dominant figures in international football. 

Harry Kane is Papin’s favourite for this year’s award

Papin was asked about his preferences for the next Ballon d’Or, which is scheduled to be presented on 26 October.

The former French international identified Harry Kane as his preferred candidate, while also recognising the achievements of Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal. 

Ballon d’Or contender. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)

“I have a slight preference for Harry Kane, but Kylian Mbappe has also had a very good season, as has Lamine Yamal,” Papin said, as quoted by SPORT. 

However, Papin believes Yamal has the talent to win football’s most prestigious individual prize and potentially remain at the top for years. 

“I am afraid that once Lamine Yamal gets his hands on it, he will keep it for several years, because he is so incredible every day,” the Frenchman remarked. 

Papin also highlighted the winger’s ability to produce something unexpected whenever he takes to the pitch. 

“Every time I watch him play, you get the impression that he invents something,” he added. 

Papin still gives Kane the edge

Papin giving the edge to Kane in the Ballon d’Or race. (Photo by Bradley Collyer – Pool / Getty Images)

Despite his glowing praise for Yamal, Papin maintained his preference for Kane when discussing this year’s award. 

“Lamine could win it too, but I would have a slight preference for Harry Kane,” he concluded. 

Papin’s comments reflect the growing recognition of Yamal’s standing among football’s leading figures.

While the Frenchman favours Kane for the upcoming ceremony, he believes the Barcelona star could become a regular contender for the Ballon d’Or in the years ahead.