Mansion Sports – Barcelona captain Raphinha has given his full support to his teammate, Lamine Yamal, in the race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

The Brazilian winger believes the teenage sensation has a unique combination of trophy success and individual brilliance required to win the most prestigious individual award in football.

Captain Backs Teenage Sensation to Win the Top Prize

As the deadline for Ballon d’Or voting approaches, Barcelona captain Raphinha has left no room for doubt over his choice for the award.

With 100 journalists from around the world preparing to submit their final votes to France Football on September 28, the debate over who most deserves to win the Golden Ball has reached its peak.

When asked directly whether the La Masia graduate should be the player lifting the trophy, the Brazilian responded in an interview with The Guardian and La Gazzetta dello Sport: “Without a doubt, yes.”

The 27-year-old winger insisted that his teammate meets every possible criterion that could be used to evaluate the best players in the world.

Raphinha explained his reasoning by saying: “Yes, especially. I believe that winning the Ballon d’Or is about individual statistics, team honours, and the magic he has on the pitch. Charisma and everything like that. For me, these are the most important points for winning the award. And I think Lamine has all of them.”

Statistical Dominance and Trophy Success

Yamal’s case is further strengthened by truly outstanding performances that have made him a central figure at both club and international level.

Raphinha pointed to the youngster’s consistency in contributing as one of the main factors behind his candidacy, stressing that his impressive performances are not simply a brief flash of form.

“Lamine has spectacular numbers, not only last season but also in other seasons. And this season has also started spectacularly.”

“Of the three trophies last season, he won two with Barcelona and the World Cup with his national team,” the captain said in the interview.

The Brazilian added: “And for me, he is one of the most important players for Barcelona and one of the most important players for the Spanish national team. So for me, there is no doubt.”

“For me, Lamine has to win the award no matter what. And whatever other people say, everyone has to look after their own interests. But for me, this is very clear, even if I were not Lamine’s teammate.”

Dismissing Claims of Bias Due to Club Loyalty

Aware that his comments could be considered biased because they play for the same club, Raphinha was quick to explain that his opinion would not change even if they played for different teams. He said Yamal’s talent is so undeniable that it goes beyond club rivalries.

“Either way, he has to win. Others will defend their own players, but for me, he is clearly the choice. Even if I were not his teammate, I would say that he deserves it,” the Brazilian said.

Raphinha’s focus remains on the tangible impact Yamal has made on football’s biggest stages.

He once again emphasized that the forward is “one of the most important players for Barca and Spain,” while acknowledging his role as a protagonist for his club and the European champions.

“For what he does on the pitch and the numbers he has, as well as the trophies he has won... He has to win it,” the captain added.

Countdown to the Awards Ceremony

The race for the Ballon d’Or is now entering its final stage, with the football world waiting to see who will be announced as the winner.

The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on October 26 in London, marking a change of location for the prestigious event.

The voting period is also approaching its conclusion, as the panel of journalists from around the world has until September 28 to submit their final choices.

With Raphinha’s public campaign becoming increasingly vocal, pressure on voters continues to grow to recognize the extraordinary year enjoyed by Barcelona’s latest icon.