Eto'o backs Lamine Yamal for the Ballon d'Or in London

Samuel Eto'o, former striker of FC Barcelona, has expressed his support for Lamine Yamal on Instagram, calling him the “Ballon d'Or of our hearts” and noting that the award ceremony will take place on October 26 in London, in a post that has generated numerous praises.

Joan Laporta and Samuel Eto'o met this summer in New York, where journalist Jordi Batalla covered the meeting for Instagram. Both shared their vision about the future of the young Barça star.

In the post, the Cameroonian described the blue‑and‑grana ‘10’ as the “Ballon d'Or of our hearts”. He also noted that the prize should be awarded on the upcoming October 26 in London.

Nico Williams backs Lamine Yamal as Ballon d’Or must‑see

Laura Aparicio and Kane also voiced support for Yamal, calling him the one most deserving of the award. Xavi Solé added that, whatever the verdict, Yamal is already the Ballon d'Or of our hearts.

Deco, sporting director of Barça and close friend of Eto'o, reacted to the post with applause and heart emojis, showing his backing for the young forward.

Yamal leads the debate for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, backed by Mbappé

Voting closure and favorites

Ballon d'Or voting closes on Monday, September 28, considering achievements from the start of last season up to the World Cup final. After finishing second in the previous campaign, Lamine Yamal emerges as one of the main favorites.